Massive Fire Displaces Eight Families in Washington Township Apartment Complex

WASHINGTON TWP, Mich. — A destructive fire engulfed the Stony Creek Apartments on Wednesday morning, leaving eight families homeless. This incident follows a minor blaze at the same location just a day earlier, with authorities investigating a possible connection.

Firefighters received reports of the fire at approximately 6:15 a.m. at the apartment complex located at the intersection of 27 Mile and Van Dyke. The earlier fire, which was reported around 4:30 p.m. the previous day, had been extinguished by emergency services with no injuries reported.

Washington Township Fire Chief Bryan Tyrell expressed concerns regarding the repeated emergencies at the same site. “It’s troublesome when we have to run back to the same building, and it occurred in the exact same building in the complex,” he stated. While the cause of the latest blaze remains undetermined, Tyrell noted that the earlier flames may have been sparked by unattended incense in a second-floor unit.

The second fire resulted in the destruction of a two-level, eight-unit building, affecting four occupied units. Fortunately, all residents escaped unharmed, although at least one firefighter sustained a minor back injury and was treated at a local hospital.

Eyewitness Nicole Dettloff recounted the harrowing experience of witnessing both fires, describing the intensity of the flames. “It was so hot when I walked out the front door. The flames were just roaring. I feel so bad for the people who live in that building,” Dettloff said.

In response to the disaster, Washington Township is organizing a community donation drive to assist the displaced families. The township has set up bins at Washington Township Hall located at 57900 Van Dyke for residents to donate non-perishable food, clothing, blankets, toys, pet food, and gift cards.

Tyrell confirmed that during the second fire, crews from Bruce Township, Rochester, Rochester Hills, Shelby Township, and Macomb Township were called in to provide assistance, totaling around 25 firefighters on the scene.

Washington Township Supervisor Sebastian “Sam” Previti praised the emergency responders for their quick action, stating on social media, “Their bravery and dedication to our community do not go unnoticed.” He urged residents to support those affected by the fires as they work to recover from this devastating event.