A Detroit man is facing felony charges after investigators say he exposed himself to children and a woman while working as a DoorDash driver in two downriver communities and police believe there could be more victims.

Brownstown Township detectives say 23-year-old Christian Joel Venancio drove up to three young girls playing in their front yard near Telegraph Road and called one of the children over to his vehicle.

Surveillance video shows car approach children and then drive off: Surveillance video shows car approach children and then drive off

"This did not happen down the street, it did not happen in some alley somewhere, this happened right outside this residence," Detective Sergeant Ian Morrison said.

Surveillance video captured a white Ford Edge pulling up to the children outside their home. The girls' father called police.

"This father called police saying that a male drove up and exposed himself and was rubbing on himself," Morrison said.

Through their investigation, detectives identified Venancio as the driver. Morrison says Venancio had just completed a DoorDash delivery in the area before the incident. He was arrested six days later during a traffic stop in Brownstown Township.

"That window of opportunity can be so small for someone to take advantage of, and certainly not every DoorDash driver is doing these sorts of things, but these people exist; they're out there," Morrison said.

Detectives also connected Venancio to a similar incident in Grosse Ile, where police say he exposed himself to an older woman after asking if she needed a ride again in the same white Ford Edge, a vehicle investigators say he is known to drive but is not registered to him.

Venancio is now charged with aggravated indecent exposure, a felony, in both cases. He is currently out on bond.

Rachel Yancey, the mother of the 8-year-old girl police say was targeted in Brownstown Township, says the arrest has not erased the fear her family now lives with.

"It was so many different emotions at one time; it was like rage, it was me being scared, it was the protective part of me, like, ' This is my baby," Yancey said. "It makes you feel very vulnerable and unsafe. Of course, now the security cameras are up and things like that just for more sense of security, but it's really just the fact that my children are right outside my home and can become victimized that fast."

Investigators say the two victims appear to have been randomly targeted, and they are going public with the case because they believe there may be additional victims.

"Based on the totality of this investigation, we believe that there's a likelihood there's more victims out there, so we would obviously want that information," Morrison said.

Police say Venancio has frequented communities across metro Detroit as a DoorDash driver. Anyone who may have had a similar experience is urged to contact Brownstown Township Police or Grosse Ile Police.

I reached out to DoorDash to ask whether Venancio was actively working for the company at the time of these incidents and what safeguards are in place for customers and communities. A response is still pending.

Yancey is urging parents to talk with their children about reporting anything that makes them feel uncomfortable.

"I just want people to understand that no matter how minor the situation is, if somebody makes you feel uncomfortable sexually, that is something that should be reported, no matter if it was minor or major; it should be something that's reported," Yancey said.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

A driver is on the run after leading police on a high-speed chase that ended when a dark-colored SUV crashed into a commercial building near Eureka Road and 17th Street in Wyandotte.

Wyandotte police arrived at the scene just after 4:20 a.m. Monday to find the SUV had struck a commercial building, a utility pole and a fire hydrant. City workers have since repaired the fire hydrant.

The chase began in Trenton, where an officer attempted to pull over the SUV for a broken taillight. The driver fled, prompting a brief pursuit that officers called off when speeds reached nearly 100 miles per hour.

Minutes later, Wyandotte officers located the crashed SUV but the driver was gone.

Officers launched a K-9 search and deployed drones in an attempt to locate the suspect, but were unsuccessful.

Wyandotte police said evidence found inside the SUV points to someone already known to them. The vehicle is registered to a business, not an individual.

We spoke with the building's owners by phone. They said the damaged area is used for storage and that they are grateful no one was hurt.

Trenton police are leading the investigation with assistance from Wyandotte police. Anyone with information about the driver or the incident is asked to contact Trenton police.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

Sgt. Adam Amrozi of the Lincoln Park Fire Department died suddenly Sunday morning, less than 24 hours after completing a busy 24-hour shift. His death is now being reviewed as a possible line-of-duty death.

Fire Chief Michael Prinz said Amrozi appeared to have suffered a cardiac incident after complaining of indigestion following his shift.

Watch Carli Petrus' video report below: Firefighters across the Downriver area line the streets to honor Sgt. Adam Amrozi

"I received a call Sunday morning that Riverview Fire Department was taking Sgt. Amrozi to the hospital and it didn't look good," Prinz said.

Prinz said Amrozi had just finished a demanding shift in which the department was operating with minimal staffing.

"If anybody knows, 17 calls in 24 hours, that's a pretty busy shift," Prinz said. "Usually, we try to share the work if we can. In this case, with only two rigs in service and four people working, it was hard to do."

The department is reviewing Amrozi's death under what is known as the 24-hour rule, which presumes a death is line-of-duty if it occurs within 24 hours of a shift.

"If anything happens in 24 hours, it's presumed line-of-duty until proven otherwise so yes, that's why we're calling it a line-of-duty because of the stresses of both police and fire," Prinz said.

Amrozi served the Lincoln Park Fire Department for 22 years. For those who worked alongside him, the loss is deeply personal. Prinz described Amrozi as someone whose character set him apart.

"He was a good firefighter, a really good paramedic, but what set Adam apart from anything else was his kindness," Prinz said.

Lt. Dennis Gratopp, who stood beside Amrozi on his wedding day, reflected on the bond they shared.

"It was an honor to stand for him then and it's an honor to stand for him today too," Gratopp said.

Surrounding fire departments stepped in to cover shifts, so every member of the Lincoln Park Fire Department could attend Friday's procession to honor Amrozi.

"He will be missed. The community lost a good member of our department. It's going to be a tough set of shoes to fill," Gratopp said.

Amrozi's locker at the Lincoln Park Fire Department remains just as he left it after his last shift.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

Four bikes were stolen from The Arc of Grosse Pointe and Harper Woods, a nonprofit that serves people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

The bikes are a key part of the organization's programming, helping clients build confidence, stay active and develop independence.

Watch Carli Petrus' video report below: Bikes stolen from nonprofit that serves people with disabilities

Executive Director Lesley Moffat said she discovered the theft Wednesday morning when she noticed something unusual near the carport tent where the bikes are stored.

"Upon opening the bike tent, I noticed there was a huge gap at the back," Moffat said.

After checking inventory, she confirmed four bikes were missing. She believes whoever took them exploited a weak point at the back of the tent.

"It meets in the middle and it was disconnected and when it's not pulled taut, you can lift the back up pretty high," Moffat said.

The Arc owns 19 bikes that clients use regularly, making the loss a significant blow to the program. For families like that of 14-year-old Caleb, the bikes represent far more than recreation. His father, Gary Hoenicke, said the program has been transformative.

"Being able to operate in a parking lot where it's closed off, you don't have cars coming through, and they're able to have one-on-one support riding those bikes, he wouldn't be riding a two-wheeler without it to be quite honest," Hoenicke said.

Caleb, who rides bikes at The Arc every day, had a clear message for whoever took them.

"It's not OK to steal bikes for no reason," Caleb said.

Moffat filed a report with Grosse Pointe Woods police and described the discovery as heartbreaking.

"I mean, they're taking away from my kids, you know, and they're just such wonderful, amazing individuals," Moffat said.

After sharing news of the theft on social media, the community began responding quickly.

"We had two bikes that were dropped off today and there's another family I think they reshared it on Facebook and they have four bikes that they're going to be bringing in," Moffat said.

The Arc is also taking steps to prevent future thefts, adding chains, locks and identification tags to its bikes. Moffat said the incident made one need clear.

"The clear indication is that we need to invest in a more permanent structure," Moffat said.

Hoenicke said he hopes the incident brings broader awareness to the organization and its mission.

"The Arc is an essential part of the special needs community, especially around here. The positive side of this is more people may be aware of The Arc's existence and hopefully, we get more support to get the shed we're looking for to house the bikes permanently," Hoenicke said.

Anyone with information about the theft or who spots the stolen bikes is asked to contact Grosse Pointe Woods police.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

Wildfire smoke from Canada and Minnesota continues to roll into Michigan, pushing air quality to dangerous levels. Health officials say the state has never seen before.

Watch Carli Petrus's video report: Wildfire smoke brings unprecedented air quality levels to Michigan; here's how to stay safe

Aaron Ferguson, an expert with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, said the current event stands apart from previous smoke episodes.

"In 2023 and 2025, we had statewide air quality alerts then, but right now we have a statewide air quality alert at the hazardous level, which we've never seen in Michigan before," Ferguson said.

Residents are noticing the difference.

"I'm like, geez, who's lighting a campfire out here?" Alyssa Koukis said.

"In previous years, I don't recall it being as bad as it is today. It's very difficult to breathe. I keep forgetting my mask," Cassandra Jerido said.

Ferguson said the smoke contains fine particles that can cause serious health problems. The goal, he said, is to limit how much smoke makes it into your lungs and that starts at home.

"Running that air conditioning, if you can put in a MERV 13 or better air filter into your HVAC system," Ferguson said.

For those without central air conditioning, Ferguson said window units can still help, as long as everything is properly sealed and set to recirculate. He also outlined a list of things people should avoid doing indoors during the event.

"We also recommend that there's certain things people do not do if they're staying inside, which would be, of course, no smoking inside, don't burn candles, don't use gas stoves to cook, don't spray or use aerosols, and don't vacuum," Ferguson said.

Cleaner air matters in your car, too. Ryan Seidler, service director at Tamaroff Honda, said a single button can help keep smoke out of the cabin.

"This guy right here is your recirculate button, it's lit up yellow, so it's turned on, which means it's using the air in the cabin and recycling it instead of bringing in fresh air," Seidler said.

Seidler also recommended getting cabin air filters checked regularly.

"Weather like this is definitely going to impact the lifespan of those filters," Seidler said.

Air quality on Friday is expected to be similar across Michigan, but experts say conditions should improve this weekend.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

Public transit connects thousands of people across Wayne County every day from getting to work to making doctor's appointments. On Aug. 4, voters will decide whether the funding that supports those services will continue.

Watch Carli Petrus's video report: Wayne County voters to decide August millage that would fund public transit

Wayne County Executive Warren C. Evans said the millage, if passed, would keep transit services running and expand access across all 43 communities.

"It is extremely important that we think of transit in terms of opportunities," Evans said.

Evans pointed to the region's broader transit landscape as context for the vote.

"Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb ought to be a solid region and transportation is a big portion of that and Wayne County is the only county that hasn't stepped up to the plate to where they should yet," Evans said.

For supporters like Lisa Franklin, public transportation is more than a convenience it's a lifeline. Franklin was paralyzed from the waist down after a drunk driver crashed into her in 1996, and she now relies on others to get where she needs to go. She said the funding would help increase access to jobs, healthcare, schools and shopping for thousands of people.

"I just want to make sure everybody knows that one day it could be you," Franklin said.

"18, or 118, somewhere down that line, you're going to need transportation from somebody else. We depend on this transportation service more than anyone else, so if we do it for us, then it's good for everybody," Franklin said.

If the millage passes, the 26 communities that already pay the transit tax would keep their current rate. The other 17 communities would begin paying the tax a concern for some residents.

"It averages about $8 a month for a house value of $200,000," Evans said.

Brownstown Township is one of the 17 communities that would begin paying the tax. Resident Dana Palazzolo said the dollar amount isn't what gives him pause.

"$8 a month is really not a lot of money, I mean it's $96 a year or so," Palazzolo said.

But Palazzolo remains on the fence over questions about the millage's financial sustainability.

"But I think the fact that it just doesn't pay for itself," Palazzolo said.

If the millage does not pass, county leaders say transit funding would stop at the end of the year, which could lead to reduced or eliminated bus services.

Check out the millage proposal language below:

WAYNE COUNTY TRANSIT AUTHORITY PROPOSAL

Wayne County Transit Authority

Wayne County Public Transportation Millage

A proposal to authorize the Wayne County Transit Authority to levy a millage for the purpose of funding public transportation services in Wayne County, including operating, maintaining, improving, and expanding transit services; creating and expanding new fixed routes for bus service connecting local communities; expanding transportation services for seniors, veterans, people with disabilities, and the general public to access healthcare, education, and other daily needs. The millage would be levied at a maximum rate of 0.9831 mills (0.98 cents per $1,000 of taxable value) for a period of 10 years beginning with the 2026 tax year levy and ending with the 2035 tax year levy. This millage would replace an expiring millage levied by the Wayne County Transit Authority supporting the Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART). If this new millage is approved and levied, revenue will be distributed to Wayne County, SMART, Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT), and other community and regional transit providers. It is estimated that $57,616,329.00 will be collected in the first year. Should this proposal be adopted?

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

Temperatures climbing into the 90s have sent Downriver residents searching for relief and they're finding it at splash pads, community pools, and local parks.

Watch Carli Petrus's video report: Beating the heat Downriver

Taylor resident Cam Smith brought his toddler to the splash pad for exactly that reason.

"They love being out in the cold water; it cools them off, and they have a great time doing it," Smith said.

For siblings Brooklyn and Dallas, the splash pad is their favorite escape from the heat.

"It feels good to get wet and not be hot anymore," Brooklyn said.

At the Kennedy Aquatic Center in Trenton, the demand was clear there was a line to get in. Workers say hot days bring a big jump in visitors.

"It gets long," Trenton resident Sierra Ptak said.

Ptak says she makes a point to arrive early.

"Because if you don't and we get here at two or after, sometimes the line is wrapped all the way around and you're not going to get in, probably," Ptak said.

It's not just people trying to stay comfortable. At the Heritage Park Petting Farm in Taylor, keepers are taking extra steps to protect animals from the extreme heat.

"We give them frozen water bottles to make sure that they can rub up against it and cool down, we do a lot of topping off waters and making sure they're filled at all times, we make sure all the fans are going up here so that they can stand in the cool air and make sure that they're not overheating too much but we do make sure they do have time to go outside whenever they would like," keeper Lila Turner said.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

One of metro Detroit's longest-running summer traditions is back, as the Wyandotte Street Art Fair celebrates its 65th year transforming downtown into an outdoor gallery along Biddle Avenue.

More than 300 artists, local restaurants, vendors and live entertainment are spread across several blocks, drawing shoppers, families and art lovers to the annual event.

Watch Carli Petrus' video report below: Wyandotte street art fair underway

Heather Thiede-Champlin, the city's special events coordinator, says the fair is one of the largest of its kind in Michigan and that pulling it off takes months of behind-the-scenes planning.

"We have really something for everyone," Thiede-Champlin said. "We hope that people enjoy it and appreciate what we've done."

For many of the artists setting up booths along Biddle Avenue, the fair is about more than selling their work. Heidi and Joe Kisselburg have been showing off their tie-dye creations at the fair since the 1980s.

"Forty-two years," Joe Kisselburg said.

The couple says the best part is watching generations of families stop by year after year.

"We're selling to grandchildren of some of the original people that bought from us in the 80s. So, it's wonderful for us to see everybody. It's kind of like a get together," Kisselburg said.

For artist Alexa Daluz, showing her work in her hometown is a dream come true.

"It's such a good feeling for the people I grew up with and my community to say such kind things about what I do," Daluz said.

Daluz grew up attending the Wyandotte Street Art Fair and is now sharing the tradition with her two daughters.

"Little Alexa who used to ride her bike up here is really excited about this kind of stuff," Daluz said.

That sense of tradition is what many say sets this fair apart. Attendee Donna Pierce-Chambers says she plans her summer schedule around it.

"Every year, as soon as they announce the dates, I put it on my calendar, I schedule a day off work," Pierce-Chambers said. "I just love it. I love Wyandotte."

Visitors can also stop by Matthew Edens' lemonade stand, an iconic fixture at the fair that donates some of its proceeds to local charities.

"You don't want to miss this event it's a Michigan tradition," Edens said.

The Wyandotte Street Art Fair continues through Saturday from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

Taylor police say a man shot by officers Monday may be connected to a number of armed robberies across state lines, as new cellphone video and exclusive photos provide a clearer picture of what happened in the moments before officers opened fire.

Cellphone video, given to 7 News Detroit by a witness, shows the exact moment four Taylor police officers opened fire on the suspect, who was wanted for an armed robbery at a Dollar Tree in the Cleveland area.

Watch Carli Petrus' video report below: Taylor police shooting suspect may be linked to armed robberies across state lines

Chief John Blair says as officers moved in to arrest the suspect, he cracked open the door of the U-Haul he was driving and pointed a handgun directly at them.

"What we're sharing with you is a quick view of the weapon being pointed directly at our officers," Blair said.

Taylor police shared exclusive photos with 7 News Detroit showing the moment they say the man drew his weapon, along with another image showing the gun on the floorboard after the shooting.

"Fortunately, we were able to take this person into custody and remove him from the streets," Blair said.

Previous report: Armed suspect wanted for Ohio robbery shot by Taylor police at Sheetz Armed suspect wanted for Ohio robbery shot by Taylor police at Sheetz

A woman was in the U-Haul with the suspect at the time of the shooting. Police say she was taken to the police station but released that same day. Her information led investigators to a nearby Red Roof Inn, where they found two women, eight children and evidence they believe links the group to the Ohio robbery and possibly others.

"We identified who was there. We did recover some evidence that we believe links them to the crime in Cleveland and potentially some others," Blair said.

Taylor police are now working with law enforcement agencies out of state, as they believe the suspect could be involved in more armed robberies.

"Typically, you don't commit one armed robbery it's very rare. There's always usually a string of them or a number of them and knowing that he committed this armed robbery down in Cleveland, we believe there could be others in the area. So we are working with the Cleveland Police Department as well as the FBI in Ohio to see if there's other crimes because that's very typical and we believe we're headed in the right direction with this," Blair said.

The suspect remains in the hospital in stable condition. The Wayne County Prosecutor's Office will be reviewing the case for possible charges.

-

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

A colorful mural of flowers and smiley faces that brightened the Wyandotte Recycling Center has been painted over by city crews after officials said the project did not go through the required review and approval process.

Watch Carli Petrus's video report: Wyandotte mural painted over after city says it lacked proper approval

The woman who created it a city employee in her 70s who used her own money and time off is now concerned about her job.

The mural, which featured bright colors and the words "Let's Recycle" on a normally brown brick wall, had been in place since the middle of May. It quickly became a favorite among residents who visited the recycling center. And when word spread that it could be removed, community members launched a petition to save it, collecting hundreds of signatures.

"It cheers people up," said Bonnie Pawlik, a resident who appreciated the artwork.

Jason Adkins, who visits the recycling center weekly or every other week, said he noticed the mural and had no complaints.

"I noticed there was a mural painted on it. It looked nice. It looked fine," Adkins said.

When news of the potential removal spread online, Adkins said he was puzzled by the opposition.

"I saw something online about somebody complained about it. I don't know why they would complain about it. I don't know who it was bothering," Adkins said.

Despite the community support, city crews painted over the mural this week. In a statement, the city acknowledged the public's reaction.

<i>The City of Wyandotte has received comments and inquiries regarding the mural that was recently painted on the Recycling Center building.</i> <i>We recognize that many residents appreciated the artwork and have expressed disappointment that it has been removed. We appreciate the community's passion for public art and the thoughtful feedback that has been shared.</i> <i>The removal of the mural was not based on its artistic merit or message. Rather, the action was necessary because the project did not go through the review and approval process required by the Wyandotte Zoning Ordinance. Under City ordinance, murals on public property must first be reviewed by the Planning Commission, which then provides a recommendation to the City Council for consideration. Those required steps were not completed prior to the mural being painted.</i> <i>City ordinances and established procedures exist to ensure transparency, public input, and consistent decision-making regarding projects on public property. The City has an obligation to follow those requirements regardless of the circumstances.</i> <i>The City appreciates the public's interest in this matter and remains supportive of opportunities to enhance our community through public art when pursued through the appropriate review and approval process.</i>

Wyandotte resident Mark Sciacca said he understands why the city acted.

"I mean, protocol, I guess, is good," Sciacca said.

But Sciacca also suggested the situation could have been handled differently.

"So, instead of painting over it maybe somebody could've went to some kind of appeal board in the city if there is such. Could've been appealed," Sciacca said.

Pawlik also questioning why the mural warranted removal at all.

"Seriously, who cares what the back of the building is painted like, unless it says something mean or something. But if it's nice, who cares," Pawlik said.

The city said it remains supportive of public art projects when they move through the appropriate review and approval process. Coworkers of the woman who painted the mural say she is now worried about what the controversy could mean for her future as a city employee.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

A 92-year-old Southgate woman lost nearly everything in a devastating apartment fire last October including a treasured letter from former President Barack Obama sent on her 80th birthday. Now, thanks to a state lawmaker, she has it back.

Carrie Turner was among the dozens of seniors displaced when the American House in Southgate was engulfed in flames. Officials say the cause of the fire remains unknown.

Watch Carli Petrus' video report below: Southgate senior gets replacement Obama letter after fire

"They rushed us out of the building and we were outside. It was really cold that night," Turner said.

Turner escaped with only the clothes on her back.

"I lost everything but thankfully, I didn't lose my life," Turner said.

Among the irreplaceable items lost were photo albums, a Bible that belonged to her late son and the letter from Obama.

"I didn't think I could get it back," Turner said.

Watch our previous coverage after the fire below: Southgate senior complex fire under investigation, residents recount the rescue

State Sen. Darrin Camilleri and his staff learned about the letter while helping residents in the aftermath of the fire. Camilleri decided to reach out to the former president's office.

"I wanted to see if we could do anything about it and so, I've never met President Obama, but we figured it might not hurt to have a letter from a state senator requesting a copy," Camilleri said.

Turner's daughter, Jacquelyn Williams, described just how meaningful the original letter had been to her mother.

"Just getting that correspondence from the White House, from both the former president and first lady, both signed it, pictures of them both, it was special," Williams said.

Months after Camilleri's staff contacted Obama's office, a package arrived. Inside was a replacement of the original letter, along with a new message celebrating Turner's 90th birthday.

For Turner and Williams, the letters cannot replace everything lost in the fire. But they represent something the family has been rebuilding ever since hope.

"Being able to get something that has been destroyed, that you think is irreplaceable, is just amazing," Williams said.

Turner moved into a new apartment last week and says she is excited to hang the letters on the wall. She did notice one small detail, however the letters address her as "Ms." rather than "Mrs."

"It's really nice. The only thing I don't like about it, they have Ms. I'm Mrs.," Turner said.

When asked about the distinction, Turner was clear.

"Uh huh. I was married," Turner said.

Despite that minor detail, Turner says the letters are still a gift she never expected to receive a piece of her past, returned at a time when she is finally looking toward the future.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

A house fire destroyed an 11-year-old Taylor girl's bedroom and all of the crafting supplies she used to run a small business and now her Downriver community is stepping up to help her rebuild.

River Lipkowski sells handmade creations at Polka Dots, a local shop in Romulus where she has spent countless hours making and displaying her work. When a fire broke out in her bedroom Saturday evening, she lost everything inside.

Watch Carli Petrus' video report below: Downriver community rallies around 11-year-old entrepreneur

"I started screaming my bedrooms on fire, my bedrooms on fire as loud as I could," River said.

The Lipkowski family believes the fire was electrical in nature. The fire department has not yet confirmed an official cause.

Her father, Al Lipkowski, described the extent of the damage.

"Her room is toast, you know. But there is a lot of fire damage and stuff like that like from smoke and then the water damage," Al Lipkowski said.

For River, the loss went beyond her bedroom. The fire wiped out every tool, material and supply she relied on to make and sell her handmade items.

"It's kind of weird because every once in a while, I get mad at my brother and I don't have something to do to get it off of my mind," River said.

Polka Dots is donating $500 to help River replace some of her lost supplies. The shop is also waiving its standard monthly percentage of vendor sales, ensuring every dollar River earns goes directly back to her. Store owner Jay Kuderik said the shop plans to create a dedicated display near the front register to drive customer support for River's products.

"Typically every month, we as a store, part of the operations is we take a percentage of their sales. We're not going to take a percentage of River's sales. We're going to give all that money directly back to her and we're going to make a display of all of her stuff by the front register, so that people want to come and directly support her," Kuderik said.

Kuderik said the outpouring of support reflects the character of the Romulus community.

"When something happens in the community, when somebody like Courtney and Alex who were born and raised in the community, we come together, we try to support and lift up each other as much as we can," Kuderik said.

After a post on Facebook from Polka Dots, the Lipkowski family said the community response has already begun pouring in. River's mother, Courtney Lipkowski, said the support has brought her comfort.

"It makes it easier, at least for me, to kind of know that my babies are not going to want for the things that were lost," Courtney Lipkowski said.

River said the support from people inside and outside the shop has meant everything to her.

"There are a bunch of people that I know who sell stuff in here and people that I don't know, but they know what kind of crafts I make and stuff like that and I'm just really happy," River said.

The family does not have insurance. Anyone looking to help River and her family can drop off monetary donations at Polka Dots to assist with rebuilding their home.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.