SOUTHGATE, Mich. – Authorities released new bodycam footage of police in Southgate helping residents of a senior living facility escape a large fire.
The fire happened Friday, Oct. 24, at the American House on Allen Road.
No injuries were reported.
All residents were evacuated to the Southgate Senior Center, where the Red Cross provided support and shelter.
---> ‘It’s a miracle’: Fire erupts at Southgate senior living facility; All residents accounted for
First responders included 39 officers from 11 different agencies and dozens of fire crews. They quickly began escorting residents trapped in the structure fire at the senior assisted living apartment complex to safety.
Despite heavy flames, smoke and structural collapse in some areas, first responders entered the burning building to rescue residents, some without any protective gear or equipment.
Many tenants had low or no mobility, with some confined to their beds and unable to move as the building filled with smoke and fire. Bodycam footage showed first responders pushing wheelchairs and helping residents on the stairs.
You can watch the newly released bodycam footage in the video player above.
“These responders acted with extreme courage and bravery and because of their selfless actions, they were able to remove every tenant from the apartment complex,” said Public Safety Director Joseph Marsh. “We had ZERO fatalities, which was only possible because of these first responders. I am Thankful for their service and strongly support these heroes.”