Three still hospitalized after fire at Southgate senior apartment complex

Southgate — Three people remained in stable condition Wednesday at an area hospital after a fire ripped through a senior citizen apartment complex the day before.

Six people were taken to Wyandotte Hospital after the Tuesday afternoon blaze at the Meadows of Southgate, but three have been discharged, according to an update from Southgate Fire Chief Mark A. Mydlarz.

Fire crews, meanwhile, on Wednesday continued to pry through the partially-collapsed complex on Allen Road north of Pennsylvania Road to ensure all residents are accounted for. Investigators also are working to determine the cause of the blaze.

"We are in the process of ensuring all residents are accounted for," Mydlarz said in a statement. "However, this remains a difficult task as the roof has collapsed hampering the structural integrity of the building."

The fire broke out around 3:15 p.m. and was extinguished by 6 p.m. Southgate police and fire departments encountered heavy smoke and an active fire when they first arrived, officials said.

Several civilians and first responders sustained injuries from the blaze, said Mydlarz.

Trenton Southshore Hospital treated two first responders ― a Southgate Police officer who was treated and released, and a Wyandotte Police officer, who was transferred to Detroit Receiving Hospital where she has been downgraded to stable condition, officials said. Heritage Hospital treated one Allen Park Firefighter who was later released. Several other first responders were also treated on scene by paramedics.

The Southgate police and fire departments, with the help of several surrounding police and fire agencies, rescued several residents while working to contain the fire. As a result of the fire, the apartment complex sustained significant structural and water damage.

First responders are working with the Red Cross on short term housing and other essential needs. Residents displaced by the fire can contact the Red Cross directly at (800) 733-2767.

Donations, including clothing, toiletries, and personal hygiene items, are being accepted at the Southgate Senior Center, 14700 Reaume Parkway.