"Two Killed, 70 Injured in Michigan Nursing Home Blaze"
December 12, 2005
A fire broke out this morning in a northern Michigan nursing home, killing two patients and sending over 70 to the hospital with injuries. The Mather Nursing Center in Ishpeming Township, Marquette County, Michigan, was the site of the fire.
The fire broke out in 14-degree weather during a mild snowstorm just after midnight this morning. The entire north side (rear) of the building was engulfed in a thick dark smoke when firefighters arrived on the scene. Assistant Chief Firefighter Richard Harvala said that when firefighters arrived they began breaking windows in order to evacuate the residents.
The two fatalities passed away due to smoke inhalation at the nearby Bell Memorial Hospital. The two patients died shortly after being admitted to the facility, which was at capacity when they got there. Another nearby hospital, Marquette General, admitted 36 patients and saw 49 of them. Two patients were treated and released from the hospital.
Harvala reported that the entire volunteer fire department showed up to the fire and had help from nearby townships as well. Some residents have been moved to a nearby facility being used by the Red Cross. The local high school called off classes so that residents could use the school for shelter and several others stayed at nearby motels.
The cause of the blaze is under investigation and appears to be of suspicious origin.
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