Date: June 20th, 2021
Address: 150 E. Crosstown Pkwy., Suite A, Kalamazoo, MI 49001
Contact: Ryan Bridges, bridgesR@kalamazoocity.org, 269-762-2922
On June 20th, 2021 at approximately 0430hrs Kalamazoo Public Safety responded to 20 Mills St for the report of a structure fire. First arriving units located the large abandoned brick commercial structure with heavy smoke and flames pouring from the 1st and 2nd floors. It was quickly determined that interior fire suppression was not feasible and a defensive stature was assumed against the inferno.
After the initial knock down, Public Safety used thermal imaging cameras to check for possible victims inside the structure due to is proximity to the homeless encampment and did not locate anyone.
The fire was brought under control in approximately 45 minutes however, due to a partial interior collapse of the floor and deteriorating structural issues, Public Safety remained on scene for hours putting out hot spots. An excavator was brought to the scene to open part of the structure to assist with extinguishing lingering portions of the fire that were not safely accessible to fire fighters.
The fire is currently being investigated by the Fire Marshal’s office.
Anyone having information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety at 269-337-8139 or Silent Observer at 269-343-2100.
By authority of: Lt. Keaton Nielsen
