PETERSBURG, Mich. — A 12-year-old boy is dead after a fatal fire early Monday morning on West Walnut Street in Petersburg, Michigan, according to officials on the scene.
The cause of the fire is unknown. According to officials on the scene, the fire started in a detached garage.
The 12-year-old victim was identified as Malaki Christian Giles. He was a student at Summerfield Schools.
According to a news release, firefighters arrived on the scene and found the garage fully engulfed in flames as family members attempted to rescue Giles, who was trapped inside. The boy's body was found in the bathroom.
Giles' father and brother sustained burns trying to rescue him.
Summerfield Schools Superintendent Scott Salow released the following statement:
"It is with the heaviest of hearts and great sadness that I share the tragic loss of one of our elementary students. Today we learned of the passing of Malaki Giles, a fifth-grade student at Summerfield Elementary School, following injuries sustained in a garage fire from which he was unable to recover.
"There are no words to express the loss of this sweet boy who had his whole life ahead of him. During his short time at Summerfield, he touched students and staff with his gentle spirit, kind heart and bright smile.
"During such difficult times, we are reminded of the compassion and care that is so much a part of our Bulldog Community. Thank you for all that you do for our students and for each other. Arrangements will be forwarded when they are made available."
The flames destroyed the garage and damaged a boat on the property at the home. Some of the house also has heat damage.
Monroe County sheriffs, the Summerfield Fire Department and Michigan State Police were on the scene Monday.
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