(5-4-21) On Monday May 3, 2021 at approximately 6:49PM, the Benton Harbor Department of Public Safety was dispatched to a house fire at 1111 McAlister in the city of Benton Harbor.

Upon arrival, public safety officers observed heavy smoke coming from the downstairs apartment, and heavy flames coming from the rear of the residents. Firefighters were advised by bystanders that there was at least one person in the downstairs apartment.

St. Joseph Department of Public Safety also responded for mutual aid. BHDPS and SJDPS made immediate entry into the lower apartment and located a female inside. The woman was swiftly removed from the apartment and rushed to the awaiting ambulance. She was then taken to Lakeland Hospital. Unfortunately, the woman succumbed to her injuries and was declared deceased at the hospital at 9:41PM.

The Michigan State Police Fire Investigators, assisted by BHDPS Fire Marshal, are conducting the investigation into the cause of the fire. There is currently no information regarding the cause and origin at this time.

The victim’s name is being withheld at this time for the sake of the family.