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Lakefort, Michigan Man Killed in Cass County Explosion and Fire

WVPE 88.1 Elkhart/South Bend | By Kent Fulmer
Published February 6, 2024 at 8:37 AM EST
Explosion Scene
Cass County Sheriff's Department
The Aftermath of Monday's Deadly Explosion in Cass County, Michigan

A 71‑year‑old Lakefort, Michigan man was killed and a 38‑year‑old Osceola, Indiana man was injured in an explosion and fire at a petroleum pumping station in Southwest Michigan yesterday afternoon. Cass County Sheriff’s Department officials say the explosion happened a little before 4:00 Monday afternoon at a pumping station in the 19000 block of Bulhand Road in Cass County’s Calvin Township. 71‑year‑old Charles Lawrence of Lakefort, Michigan was killed. 38‑year‑old Kevin Lawrence of Osceola, Indiana received minor injuries. Officials say the two men were working on a tank when it exploded, starting the fire. The incident will be investigated by the Michigan State Police Fire Marshal and the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy
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LOCAL stories from WVPE's news team Cass County
Kent Fulmer
Kent Fulmer joined WVPE in August of 2020 to take on one of the station's most high profile roles as the local host of Morning Edition. Kent comes to WVPE with more than 20 years experience in radio in the Michiana area. During his career, Kent has had a variety of roles including DJ, reporter and newscaster, as well as several behind-the-scenes positions. Kent and his wife, Donna, are celebrating their 32nd wedding anniversary in 2020 and have lived in Elkhart County for almost 20 years. They have two adult daughters, Sarah and Rebecca. When not working, Kent is active as a musician, playing trumpet and flugelhorn. He has performed with a number of area bands. Currently he performs with the Phat Tuesday Dixieland Band and Jazz Assemblage, as well as his church's praise band. As a member of Jazz Assemblage, Kent has appeared at the Elkhart Jazz Festival several times. He also volunteers with Bugles Across America.
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