FATAL FIRE IN HENRY COUNTY EARLY THIS (TUES.) MORNING

A blaze that ignited early this (Tues.) morning at a rural Henry County home has now turned into a fatal fire. The first call was received around 4am to the Henry County Sheriff’s office, sending four fire departments to the scene: Malinta-Monroe Township, Holgate, Hamler, and Florida; while rescue units from the South Joint Ambulance District and city of Napoleon responded. Once crews were able to enter the home along Henry County road H, between Holgate and Malinta, they recovered the body of a 13 year old girl inside. The teen was pronounced dead at the scene. Three other people were able to escape the flames including parents, and a friend who was reportedly staying overnight. The blaze is believed to have started in the garage area, attached to the house, and spread quickly. Malinta Fire Chief Randy Nye reports they could see flames coming from the structure, 3 miles away as they approached. A smoke detector woke the occupants early this morning; but the exact cause of the fire is being investigated through the state fire marshall’s office. The blaze is not suspicious in nature. No other injuries were reported, and crews were on the scene for over 8 hours. The house is a total loss; and Red Cross personnel were at the site to assist the family.