Early this morning, a fire broke out at the Pines Lapeer West apartment complex in Lapeer, causing two residents to be hospitalized and displacing several families. The Lapeer Fire & Rescue and multiple departments from neighboring counties responded quickly to the scene after the blaze was reported around 8 a.m. on Village West Drive North, as detailed by abc12. Every resident was able to evacuate from the 16-unit building, preventing any life-threatening injuries.
The two individuals transported to McLaren Hospital are believed to have non-life-threatening conditions, according to Lapeer Fire Chief Mike Vogt told MLive. While the full extent of the damage is still being assessed, at least two apartments have sustained major damage. Vogt also said that the building wouldn't be considered a total loss, signaling some hope for restoration for a part of the complex.
To assist the displaced residents, the American Red Cross and the building manager are collaborating to secure alternative housing solutions. As part of the response to the fire, a staging and relocation area was promptly set up at the scene. According to information provided by The County Press, the Lapeer County emergency management officials were on hand to help coordinate the support for impacted individuals.
