AuGres, MI (December 23, 2024) – A devastating fire at the Riverside Manor Apartments complex early Sunday morning hospitalized several individuals and left more than a dozen families homeless. The fire broke out around 3 a.m. and destroyed one of the two buildings at the complex, located on North Main St near U.S. 23.
The AuGres Whitney Sims Fire Department was first on the scene, with assistance from neighboring fire departments. Firefighters battled the blaze for 11 hours in freezing conditions, extinguishing flames and addressing hotspots.
A woman with serious burns was transported to a burn center, and a young child, who sustained non-life-threatening injuries after jumping from a second-story balcony to escape, was also treated. Thankfully, no fatalities were reported, but the fire rendered 16 apartments uninhabitable, displacing 30 to 35 residents, including babies and young children.
Community Support and Relief Efforts
Arenac County Emergency Management and the American Red Cross quickly set up an emergency shelter at the Deep River Township Hall in Sterling, providing temporary accommodations and meals for those affected. Local organizations, including It Takes a Village-Arenac, have stepped up to collect donations for displaced residents.
The community is rallying to provide much-needed aid. Donations of money, clothing, nonperishable food, and toiletries are being accepted to support the affected families. City Manager Dale Wiltse praised the overwhelming community response, noting the generosity pouring in through social media and local efforts. “Our community is really coming together for this,” Wiltse said.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the fire, which has left the small town grappling with the aftermath of this tragic event. While the physical damage is significant, the outpouring of support reflects the resilience and solidarity of the AuGres community.
For more information or to provide assistance, please contact local relief organizations or Arenac County Emergency Management.