A devastating fire at the American House Senior Living Community in Southgate on Friday night left dozens of elderly residents without a home, but remarkably, everyone made it out alive thanks to the heroic efforts of first responders.

Watch Ruta Ulcinaite's video report: Southgate senior complex fire under investigation, residents recount the rescue

The fire broke out around 10 p.m. Friday when most residents were already in bed or asleep. The building now sits vacant and inaccessible, with all residents' belongings destroyed.

"And it was just miraculous that there was no loss of life, especially with the mobility issues these seniors had," Southgate Mayor Joseph Kuspa said.

Among those rescued was 80-year-old Joyce Richardson, who had recently moved into the complex. When she tried to escape through her door, she was met with thick smoke.

"So then I walked out and I tried to open the door, all I could see was smoke I couldn't see anything else," Richardson said.

First responders used a ladder to help Richardson escape through her second-story window.

"It took two firemen to help me down," she said.

Related video: Hear from others impacted by the fire Family members recall moments after massive fire at Southgate senior living facility

On Monday, Richardson attended an informational session at the American House Riverview location to learn about relocation options. She was wearing her nephew's clothing, having lost everything in the fire.

"Everything I owned everything that Rick brought in, it's gone," Richardson said.

Her nephew, Rick Richardson, expressed uncertainty about whether any possessions could be recovered.

"The building may never be safe to enter. Hopefully, she can retrieve some of her possessions," Rick Richardson said.

Watch Chopper 7 video of the massive fire: Video: Chopper 7 over massive fire at Southgate senior assisted living facility

The mayor's own sister was among those who needed rescue, requiring first responders to carry her down two flights of stairs.

"She's bedridden, so there was no way for her to get out other than to be carried and she's very thankful for that and of course, the whole family is as well," Kuspa said.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation as crews work to determine if the building is salvageable. American House continues to relocate residents across their various facilities.

Despite losing their personal belongings, residents expressed gratitude for the quick response of first responders.

"It was remarkable. And all the residents seemed pretty calm and took it all in stride. I was very impressed," Rick Richardson said about rescue efforts.

How to Help

The city of Southgate has established ways for the community to support displaced residents. Donations can be made through a secure link managed by the city, or specific items that residents need can be donated.

For residents who lost personal documents like licenses, the city of Southgate is also hosting a resource fair at the Southgate Senior Center located at 14700 Reaume Parkway, Southgate, MI 48195.

The resouece fair will take place this Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and county and state officials will be available to help residents retrieve important documentation, along with city leaders and American House representatives who can assist with relocation services and permanent housing.

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.

East Lansing is buzzing with excitement as fans from across the state and country descend on Michigan State University for Saturday's highly anticipated Michigan vs. Michigan State rivalry game.

Watch Ruta Ulcinaite's video report: Michigan vs. Michigan State rivalry game brings fans from across country to East Lansing

Last-minute preparations are underway across campus as the MSU Police Department prepares for an all-hands-on-deck operation to ensure a safe event for the tens of thousands of expected visitors.

The rivalry atmosphere is already electric, with fans making their presence known throughout the city.

"Let's go Aiden Childs," one fan was heard saying.

"Go blue. Bryce Underwood, you're the truth," another fan said on campus.

For many, this game represents something special that draws people from far and wide. Dan Kelly flew in from Montana specifically for the matchup.

"This is the game, and I absolutely love just being here," Kelly said.

MSU students are equally excited and planning to arrive hours before kickoff.

"We'll be outside of the stadium at least five hours before game time, guaranteed," MSU student Anthony Shaheen said.

The game's significance extends well beyond the state borders, attracting alumni and fans from across the country. Bjon Charlery traveled from San Francisco to witness the rivalry firsthand.

"I don't know if there's anything like this in other parts of the country, where people who just live in the state or have interacted with MSU come back specifically for this game, because they know how much it means to the state," Charlery said.

MSU police are preparing for the massive influx of visitors with additional staffing across multiple departments while utilizing technology to keep an eye on the large crowds.

"We'll have additional parking personnel, security personnel, police personnel working. We are well prepared to provide a safe environment for all fans attending Spartan football," said Deputy Chief Chris Rozman of the MSU Police Department.

Police are advising fans to arrive early in the morning and to have a solid parking plan, as spaces will be extremely limited.

"We anticipate large crowds, both during the game and post game as well," Rozman said.

The match up promises to deliver the excitement and intensity that has made this one of college football's most storied rivalries, with fans hoping for new plays, viral moments and that same old competitive spirit.

Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. Saturday.

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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.