6 displaced by fire in Augusta Township

By Lee Higgins Crime and courts reporter

Posted on Sun, Aug 28, 2011 : 1:22 p.m.

Six people were displaced by a fire that destroyed a home this morning in the 9900 block of Ricka Lane in Augusta Township, fire officials said.

A township firefighter sustained a back injury while battling the blaze that broke out at 8:18 a.m. and he was taken by ambulance to St. Joseph Mercy Hospital, Township Fire Chief Vic Chevrette said.

The fire started in an attached garage and the cause is under investigation, but there's nothing to indicate it was suspicious, Chevrette said.

The homeowner called to report the blaze and attempted to extinguish the fire with a garden hose, Chevrette said, but he was forced to evacuate as the flames spread. Three other adults and two children also were able to get out without being injured, Chevrette said.

Firefighters arrived on scene about 10 minutes after the fire was reported and had it under control by 10 a.m., Chevrette said. About 25 firefighters responded, including from Pittsfield Township and Ypsilanti Township, he said.

Along with the 3-bedroom ranch-style house, the fire destroyed a car. Damage was estimated at $250,000.

The Red Cross responded to assist those displaced.