Muskegon Heights Fire Dept

06/05/2026

It is with deep sadness that we mourn the passing of Captain Bryan Fethke.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Captain Fethke’s family, friends, fellow firefighters, and the entire Muskegon Charter Township Fire Department during this difficult time.

Captain Fethke dedicated his life to serving and protecting others, demonstrating courage, commitment, and selflessness throughout his career. His impact on the community and the lives he touched will not be forgotten.

As we remember Captain Fethke, we honor his service, sacrifice, and the legacy he leaves behind. May his family and loved ones find comfort in the support of the community and in the memories they shared with him.

Rest easy, Captain Bryan Fethke. Your watch is over, but your legacy will continue to inspire those who follow in your footsteps

06/05/2026

Congratulations Ivan Rodriguez on completing Muskegon Fire Academy! Over the past six months, Cadet Rodriguez has mastered the skills to excel as a firefighter, and his dedication will undoubtedly drive future successes. Congratulations FF Rodriguez, continue to learn, train, and elevate your impact.

05/24/2026

Commercial Structure Fire

Muskegon Heights Fire Dept responded to assist Muskegon Fire Dept on a commercial fire at Village of The Oaks. Upon arrival command request T142 to set up for potential use. Command then assigned T142 to assist with fire suppression in the attic space and overhaul operations.

05/22/2026

Muskegon Heights Fire Department provided mutual aid to Muskegon Fire Dept on a working structure fire. T142 assisted E25 with fire attack. T142 also assisted with overhaul operations.

STRUCTURE FIRE - HISTORIC HOME SAVED: At 0400 hours this morning, Muskegon Firefighters responded to a report of a possible fire in the 500-block of W. Webster. En route, dispatch advised smoke visible on the tower camera at our Central Station (see pic). BC 91 arrived on scene of a 2-story, historic Victorian home (Sibley House, built 1865) with heavy fire through the roof of an attached garage/addition extending to the roof and attic of the main structure. Numerous occupants had been alerted by working smoke alarms and were self-rescuing when initial companies arrived. E23, staffed with 4 firefighters last night, arrived as the first due engine. Due to the engine being properly staffed, the crew was able to deploy two hoselines simultaneously as well as begin work securing a water supply. This proper initial staffing allowed for a faster than usual knock down of the fire from the exterior and meant firefighters were able to get inside to extinguish fire on the second floor and in the attic just before it would have spread across the roof, likely destroying the historic home. In addition to the ten on-duty MFD firefighters, mutual aid from Muskegon Heights and Norton Shores provided critically needed manpower at this incident. Thanks to them, as well as MPD for flying their drone for thermal imaging, to THEMS for providing medical standby, and to Canteen 450 for providing rehab. The cause of the fire is under investigation. No injuries were reported.

05/21/2026

Call Of Honor Banquet

Tonight Alexander Burns was award First Responder Of the Year.

Alexander Burns exemplifies leadership and extraordinary care through his unwavering commitment to both patient outcomes and the professional development of those around him. His clinical judgment and dedication are evident in the consistently excellent patient care he provides, ensuring high standards are met in every situation. Beyond his direct responsibilities, Alexander has gone above and beyond by obtaining his CPR instructor certification, using that expertise to strengthen not only his own department but the broader community.

He has taken initiative to teach CPR courses to the Fire Department, the Muskegon Heights Police Department, and even local churches. This reflects a deep commitment to community safety and proactive risk mitigation. Additionally, Alexander has played a key role in supporting and maintaining departmental continuing education, helping ensure that all personnel remain prepared, confident, and capable in emergency situations.

Through his leadership, knowledge sharing, and selfless service, Alexander Burns has elevated the quality of care and readiness within Muskegon Heights, making a lasting impact on both his colleagues and the community they serve.

Please join me in congratulating Alexander Burns on this incredible accomplishment!

05/12/2026

STRUCTURE FIRE
5/11/26 20:16

3100 Blk Highland

Engine 120 and Engine 121 responded to reports of a kitchen fire. Responding units were updated by dispatch of a child with lacerations to the hands from broken glass.
120 arrived, confirmed smoke showing with a working fire. The Engine crews made an interior attack and quickly brought the fire under control.

Simultaneously patient care was given to the child with hand lacerations. The child had broken a bedroom window in an attempt to get away from the smoke and exit the structure.

Shortly there after dispatch updated command of three more children in need of medical attention with smoke inhalation. The vehicle with the children had left the fire scene before the fire department had arrived when suddenly the children who were originally inside the smoky structure began to have medical difficulty breathing onset. 111’s crew which was enroute to the fire was diverted to tend to the medical needs a couple blocks away from the original address. Totaling in 4 children medically treated.

A large factor in preventing more serious injuries and allowing the children along with an adult to escape successfully is contributed to the home having working smoke alarms. All three floor levels had functioning smoke alarms. Early detection was a key factor as occupants were located in different areas of the house when the fire broke out.

Off duty personnel were called in to staff the station and were ready to respond to any further emergency response needs.

05/04/2026

On International Firefighters’ Day, we extend our sincere gratitude to the brave men and women of the Muskegon Heights Fire Department for their dedication and service to our community.

A special thank you to Tyler Sales Co. and Anheuser-Busch for their generous donation of water and energy drinks in support of our firefighters. Your continued support helps keep our team prepared and ready to serve.

We truly appreciate the partnership and community spirit.

04/21/2026

STRUCTURE FIRE

2200 Blk of Sanford

Muskegon Heights Fire Department responded to multiple callers about a house on fire. Command advised heavy fire showing from the Charlie side. Commas requested mutual aid from Muskegon Fire Dept And Norton Shore Fire Dept.

PC Austin Hruskach

04/13/2026

🚨TRAINING🚨

Over the weekend, the Muskegon Heights Fire Department had four firefighters participate in a Rapid Intervention Training. Two firefighters attended as students, while the other two served as instructors.

This class focused on the importance of risk assessment, incident command, accountability, communication, and proper SOPs during Mayday situations. Students learned and practiced essential skills such as victim removal techniques, SCBA pack conversions, firefighter CPR, face mask swaps, and RIT bag familiarization to help them operate effectively and efficiently during Mayday incidents.

A special thank you to the Newaygo County Firefighters for providing this valuable training opportunity and for their continued support in helping our firefighters stay prepared and safe.