GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Three people, including a firefighter, were hospitalized after a fire in southeast Grand Rapids Thursday afternoon.
The fire broke out near Howard Street and College Avenue at around 3:30 p.m., according to the Grand Rapids Fire Department (GRFD).
We’re told firefighters were informed that a woman in a wheelchair was still inside the residence when they arrived. That person was rescued by neighbors while others began putting out the fire.
GRFD says they were told another person was inside the back section of the building. Firefighters went searching for the second occupant when a burst of flames filled the room, dealing second-degree burns to one of them. He was able to leave the area. The second occupant was found.
The firefighter was treated for his burns and released several hours later, according to GRFD. He is currently recovering at home. The first occupant was hospitalized for smoke inhalation, and the second occupant was taken to the emergency room for an unknown injury.
Fire crews say the fire was extinguished but what caused it is under investigation.
**CORRECTION: GRFD issued a correction to the initial report, which originally stated the woman in the wheelchair was rescued by firefighters. They apologize for the miscommunication and wish to recognize the good Samaritans who rushed in to help in a time of dire need.
