Detroit Fire Department cites apartment complex over fire hydrant access
A devastating apartment fire in Detroit has left a disabled woman homeless, the complex now cited with code violations.
The apartment started late in the evening of January 23 when Regiina Owens was having someone help her cook dinner.
"I didn't know exactly what was happening, all I knew was that I saw some flames in the kitchen," Regina Owens said.
But it was enough for her to understand she needed to get out quickly and call 9-1-1.
According to the Detroit Fire Department, it took 3:57 for them to get to the apartment complex after the emergency call was placed.
"I could hear their sirens, but it seemed like it was taking forever for them to get there," Owens said.
The reason Owens heard sirens well before she saw the fire crews is because a back gate was locked, and firefighters were forced to route water from a hydrant about a block away.
"How insecure is that?" Owens asked. "When an emergency occurs, they can't get in quick."
It's also a code violation, according to the National Fire Prevention Association, that resulted in the Detroit Fire Department citing Marketplace Court Apartments on Friday.
CBS News Detroit spoke to a representative at the complex Friday afternoon, who said they were unaware of any violations and declined an interview. On Monday, our crew revisited the downtown complex to get answers. However, the office was closed early and when we called there was no answer.
Meanwhile, Owens is trying to rebuild her life from scratch – which includes replacing expensive medical equipment lost in the blaze.
"I was a nurse for 20 years and had to retire when I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis," Owens said. "I was comfortable in that apartment because it was accessible."
Owens is currently living with her son, Kristopher, where space is cramped.
"My home isn't accessible like hers was," Kristopher Owens said. "It's a struggle to get around corners, the bathroom isn't large enough and we don't have any sort of ramp to help her get in and out of the home."
Kristopher said his mother had renter's insurance, but they're unsure when the money will be available for her to find another accessible apartment or to replace the items she lost.
"We're just asking anyone for help," Kristopher said. "She has done so much for so many people as a nurse and now she needs help in return."
The family has started a GoFundMe for those who would like to donate.
