MUSKEGON HEIGHTS, Mich. — A Muskegon Heights man is expected to make a full recovery after being found unconscious in his home Saturday night, overcome by carbon monoxide. The discovery came after officers were sent to conduct a welfare check when the man had not been heard from in two weeks.
According to Muskegon Heights Police, officers Amiya Overstreet and Mitch Wilson were dispatched to a home on Superior Street after concerns were raised about the man’s well-being. His wife had been dropped off at the hospital the day prior and had not heard from him since. The man also lacked a phone, making communication difficult.
What began as a routine wellness check quickly turned into a life-saving operation. Police body camera footage, provided by the Muskegon Heights Police Department, captured the tense moments as officers attempted to make contact with the man. Overstreet can be heard asking, “Are you OK? Can you come to the door?” while noticing a persistent clicking sound, which she identified as coming from the stove.
When officers entered the home, they discovered the man, who appeared nearly unconscious. Officers immediately called for assistance from the Muskegon Heights Fire Department. The fire department confirmed that the man had been using his gas stove to heat the home, causing the interior temperature to reach a dangerous 187 degrees Fahrenheit. The house was filled with gas, and the carbon monoxide detector was found to be broken.
“Every second counts,” Overstreet remarked in a statement following the incident.
The officers were met with an overpowering smell of gas and walls that were intensely hot to the touch upon entering the residence. Fortunately, their quick thinking and rapid response helped to avert what could have been a tragic outcome.
The man is now recovering and is expected to fully heal from the effects of the poisoning. Overstreet emphasized the importance of never using a gas stove for heating purposes and ensuring that carbon monoxide detectors are functioning in every home.
“This situation serves as a reminder of the potential dangers of alternative heating methods,” Overstreet added. “It’s gratifying to know that we were able to help and that his family is thankful for our quick response.”
The Muskegon Heights Police Department is continuing to urge residents to check their home safety measures, especially during the colder months when heating is a concern. Officers also took the opportunity to encourage everyone to ensure their carbon monoxide detectors are properly installed and operational.
The man’s family expressed immense gratitude for the officers’ actions, calling it a reminder of the critical role police play in protecting and serving the community. The officers, in turn, spoke of their pride in making a difference and saving a life.
The case underscores the importance of vigilance and community support in preventing similar incidents.
