Fire destroys Spring Lake home

SPRING LAKE, Mich. (WOOD) - An Ottawa County residence is considered a total loss following a fire late Sunday night.

Harold Werschem and his wife Ruby own the two-story duplex. Werschem's son, Michael, lives in the other unit at 312 N. Park St. in Spring Lake.

Michael first noticed a smell of smoke, which he attributed to a neighbor possibly having a recreational fire, according to a news release.

Michael did a quick search around the neighborhood and found nothing.

Upon arriving back to his residence, Michael heard a smoke alarm sounding on the second floor. He went up to the second floor and saw smoke coming through the second-floor flooring.

Michael ran next door and alerted his parents who were able to get out of the home safely.

Spring Lake firefighters arrived at 10:57 p.m. and saw smoke coming from the second-story roof.

Officials said fighting the fire was a challenge due to the house being built in 1855, numerous additions and balloon framing construction.

The flames went up the inside walls and into the second-story attic.

Firefighters from Ferrysburg, Crockery Township, Grand Haven, and Grand Haven Township were able to douse the flames around 12:33 a.m.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

The America Red Cross is helping the family with lodging and necessities.