Chikaming Township, MI (August 30, 2023) - A woman was killed, and a man suffered smoke inhalation after a house fire on Tuesday morning, August 29, according to the Berrien County Sheriff's Office.

Chikaming Township Fire Department and the Berrien County Sheriff's Office responded to a house fire at 8000 Warren Woods Road, Lot 24, in Lakewood Estates Manufactured Homes at about 4:30 a.m.

The sheriff's office said that when they arrived, a 59-year-old man was standing outside with symptoms of smoke inhalation and indicated there was another person trapped inside. According to the sheriff's office, deputies tried to enter the structure but were unable to because of the smoke and heat.

The combined efforts of the Chikaming Township Fire Department and the New Buffalo Township Fire Department helped extinguish the flames a short time later.

A 62-year-old woman was discovered dead inside the home by the Michigan State Police Fire Investigation Unit, who were also summoned to the scene. The sheriff's office has announced that an autopsy will be performed. The man was transported to the hospital, though his current condition is unknown.

An investigation into the blaze is ongoing.

We would like to extend our sincere condolences to the deceased woman's family. Our thoughts are with the injured victim in hopes of his full recovery.