Explosion destroys home on Bois Blanc Island

Members of the Bois Blanc Island Fire Department (BBIFD) returned to their homes shortly before midnight on Friday, 05/22/2020, after a late afternoon explosion and devastating fire leveled a cottage in the Pines.

There were two residents who suffered injuries in the fire including one who was trapped inside the structure. That victim was extricated by Fire Chief Brandon Schlund. Both victims were airlifted off the island by North Flight Aero Med. Their conditions are not known at this time.

The BBIFD crew is extremely grateful for the help it received from the Mackinac Island Fire Department, which provided mutual aid assistance by sending two crews of MIFD firefighters to Bois Blanc Island in short order. That was made possible by Mackinac Marine Rescue.

The Fire Department also expressed deep gratitude to North Flight Aero Med, Deputy Joe Fitzgerald of the Mackinac Sheriff’s Office, Joe Schlund of Island Contractors, Inc., who brought in an excavator to help knock down the hot spots in the fire; Larry and Missy of Hawks Landing Island Store, who brought much-needed food and refreshments for the first responders; Plaunt Transportation, who turned the boat around to let crew members come back and help; and a number of good citizens who came to lend a hand. Special thanks to Misty Sibbald and firefighter Michelle Satchell for these photos. We are glad to report that all members of the BBIFD and MIFD are safe. Thank you for your messages of concern and kindness.

Article and photos courtesy of Bois Blanc Island Fire Department