A tragic event unfolded in Kentwood, where a man died in a car fire on Tuesday evening. The Kentwood Police Department confirmed the victim as 53-year-old Anthony Ellis, who was believed to be experiencing homelessness and living in his vehicle at the time. Officers responded to the conflagration in a parking lot located on 28th Street SE, between an Arby's and Whole Foods, around 7:08 p.m., as reported by WWMT.
Upon the arrival of first responders, Ellis was discovered deceased, with injuries indicating that he died as a result of the fire. There appears to be no criminal intent related to Ellis' demise, nor any indication of foul play, as detailed by law enforcement. The Kentwood police stress there is no ongoing threat to the public connected to this incident, according to information provided by FOX 17. Additionally, an autopsy is pending to provide further insight into the exact cause of death.
Witnesses at the scene reported not noticing significant flames emanating from the vehicle, but observed smoke quickly filling the interior. Footage from the scene captured by first responders depicts a busy parking lot scenario with multiple emergency vehicles attending to the grim situation.
Kentwood Police Department's Detective Bureau is leading the ongoing investigation, and they encourage members of the community to come forward with any relevant information. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Silent Observer. Calls to the detective bureau can be made at 616-656-6604, while Silent Observer can be reached at 616-774-2345, as pointed out by an article from WOODTV.
