Authorities have identified a 58-year-old man who was found deceased following a residential fire in Plainwell over the weekend.
According to local officials, the incident occurred on North Main Street between Sherwood Avenue and 1st Avenue on the evening of Saturday, March 28. A firefighter with the Martin Fire Department reportedly noticed the fire while driving through the area at approximately 8:25 p.m. and alerted emergency services.
Fire crews responded promptly and entered the residence shortly after arriving on the scene. Public Safety Director Kevin Callahan said firefighters encountered significant smoke inside the home. After receiving information that someone might be inside, an additional team conducted a search and located the individual.
The victim, identified as Ted Hughes Jr., was removed from the home and taken to a waiting ambulance. Authorities confirmed he was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Officials believe Hughes was the sole occupant of the residence at the time of the fire. No other injuries have been reported in connection with the incident.
The cause of the fire has not yet been determined and remains under active investigation by local authorities. Fire officials have not released further details at this time as they continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Community members with any information that could assist investigators are encouraged to contact Plainwell Public Safety or Allegan County Central Dispatch.
Authorities say updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
