HODUNK, Mich. - The 83-year-old owner of a gristmill in southern Michigan has died after fire swept through the historic site.

Authorities say Donald Haughey died in the 9 a.m. Thursday blaze in Branch County's Hodunk, about 20 miles south-southeast of Battle Creek.

Union City Fire Chief David Hughes tells the Battle Creek Enquirer that heavy fire in the upper floor of the five-story mill and a 30-foot hole in its roof could be seen when firefighters arrived.

No other injuries were reported.

Haughey lived on the top floor and shared the building with his former wife, who lived on a lower floor and escaped.

Hughes said the blaze may have started in the chimney, which ignited the wooden structure built in 1839.

Michigan State Fire Marshal were expected to investigate.

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Information from: Battle Creek Enquirer, http://www.battlecreekenquirer.com


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