KALAMAZOO, MI – An off-duty member of the Oshtemo Township Fire Department died in a motorcycle crash early Wednesday morning. The incident occurred shortly after midnight in the 2400 block of Parkview Avenue.
At 12:09 a.m., the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety received a call regarding a small fire, which was later updated to a motorcycle crash with the vehicle reportedly fully engulfed in flames. Upon arrival, first responders found the motorcycle and rider, identified as Charlie Sullivan, unresponsive.
Emergency crews extinguished the fire and initiated life-saving efforts, but Sullivan was pronounced dead at the scene at 12:36 a.m. He was a valued member of the Oshtemo Township Fire Department, according to Fire Chief Gregory A. McComb.
“Our hearts are with Charlie’s family, friends, and fellow firefighters during this incredibly difficult time,” McComb said in a statement. “We are offering every possible support as we begin to grieve this loss together.”
The cause of the crash is currently under investigation.