Person falls asleep smoking in car leading to vehicle, house fire

Benton Harbor Department of Public Safety

BERRIEN COUNTY, Mich. -- The Benton Harbor Department of Public Safety reports crews responded to a vehicle fire Saturday afternoon at 551 N Winans Street.

Fire officials say once the fire spread from the car to the house crews with the St. Joseph Department of Public Safety, Benton Charter Township Fire Department, and Medic 1 Ambulance arrived on scene to assist.

The report states the Royalton Township Fire Department also showed up with their insulation vacuum to assist.

Fire officials determined a homeless individual, who was living in the car, appears to have fallen asleep while smoking, leading to the fire.

Officials report there were no injuries, but a family was displaced.

Neither homeowner nor vehicle owner have insurance, and the home was severely damaged.

The American Red Cross is assisting the family.

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