Investigation reveals fatal Sterling Heights apartment fire was caused by smoker

Fire ruled accident

Investigations found a fire May 17, 2017 at Sterling Knolls apartments in Sterling Heights was caused by smoking. (WDIV)

STERLING HEIGHTS, Mich. – Investigations by the Sterling Heights Police and Fire departments determined that a fire at Sterling Knolls apartments that killed one in May was the result of careless smoking.

Read more: Sterling Heights apartment fire kills 1 person, injures 3 more

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Investigators said someone who was smoking hookah on an upstairs balcony May 17 didn't properly extinguish coals.

More than 40 firefighters responded to the fire that killed Laura Ann Phillips, 33, and caused an estimated $1.5 million in damages.

The medical examiner ruled Phillips' death an accident caused by smoke inhalation and carbon monoxide toxicity.

The cause of the fire is considered an accident, investigators said. No one will be charged.

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