Incident number: 2024-01724
Type of emergency: Structure fire
Incident date: 3/11/2024
Incident time: 3:12 a.m.
Address/location: 132 N 22nd St.
Occupied? No
Owner: Phillip Wortzel
Probable cause, if known: Under investigation
Structure type: Single-family residential
Construction type: Wood frame
Estimated property damage: $50,000
Estimated contents damage: $20,000
Location/extent of damage: Rear
Hazardous materials involved?: None
Specialized rescues?: None
Vehicles involved: N/A
Injuries
Civilian: None
Responder: None
Fatalities
Civilian: One (1)
Responder: None
Other information: The Battle Creek Fire Department was dispatched to a residential structure fire at 132 N 22nd St. The residence was believed to be occupied. E-4 arrived to find fire and smoke showing from the rear of the structure. A hose line was quickly deployed for fire attack. Car 3 arrived and assumed command. Engine 5 extended a second hose line off of Engine 4 to assist with the fire attack. Rescue 2 searched the structure and Engine 3 established a water supply. Rescue 6 and Truck 1 assisted with ventilation and search. The fire was quickly extinguished and the dwelling was determined to be unoccupied, after a primary and secondary search. No injuries were reported. The Fire Marshal and Fire Inspector are investigating the cause of the fire. Anyone with information on this particular fire should call the Fire Department Administration, at 269-966-3519.
3/12/24 UPDATE: During the ongoing investigation into the early Monday morning residential fire at 132 N 22nd St., a body was found within the residence. The Battle Creek Fire Department located the deceased victim in one of the home's bedrooms.
This joint investigation, by the BCFD and the Battle Creek Police Department, is ongoing. At this time, they have no additional information to release.