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Posted on Sat, Apr 3, 2010 : 6:19 p.m.

EMU student dies of injuries suffered in house fire on South State Street in Ann Arbor

By Stefanie Murray

Renden.jpg

Renden LeMaster. Photo courtesy of the LeMasters family.

An Eastern Michigan University student died Saturday of injuries suffered in an early morning fire that gutted a rental home on South State Street in Ann Arbor.

The student has been identified as 22-year-old Renden LeMasters of Dexter, according to a statement from EMU. LeMasters was a senior in the College of Technology.

LeMasters was one of three people treated for injuries in the fire. Another man was released from the University of Michigan Hospital today and the third person, a woman, was in critical condition.

"This is a tragic loss," EMU President Susan Martin said in a statement. "Our thoughts and prayers are with Renden's family and friends at this difficult time."

This story will be updated.

Comments

msnomer2010

Sun, Apr 4, 2010 : 8:01 a.m.

Something like this just shouldn't happen. If it turns out someone intentionally set a fire or played a prank which led to the fire, they should be tried for man slaughter.

glacialerratic

Sat, Apr 3, 2010 : 7:40 p.m.

U-M crime alert states that there were "several suspicious fires at residences near campus. The fires all began outside apartment houses at different times today." Did other fires occur in addition to the house fire on State St. and the 3 cars burned in the lot next to the apartment building on Church?

Pam Wilson

Sat, Apr 3, 2010 : 7:13 p.m.

I am sor sorry to hear about Renden's tragic death. I substitute taught for many of Renden's classes when he attended Mill Creek Middle School. He always had a smile on his face and was full of life. He will be truly missed.

phdeez

Sat, Apr 3, 2010 : 7:07 p.m.

U of M Department of Public Safety just sent out a Crime Alert about "suspicious fires" around the campus area. http://police.umich.edu/?posting_id=121 This fire is already so tragic, and if this was intentionally set, well, it makes it unfathomable.

Sarcastic1

Sat, Apr 3, 2010 : 7:01 p.m.

Why is EMU releasing the name of a person who died in Ann Arbor? I hope they received permission from the victim's parents.

Tom Joad

Sat, Apr 3, 2010 : 6:38 p.m.

Everyone should have the Ann Arbor Police Department non-emergency number in their cell phone. Often when you call 911 you are waiting interminably. The A2 Police can directly contact the fire department and any emergency providers. Seconds count in a fire. Ann Arbor Police Non-Emergency number (734)994-2911--of course always call 911 first but if you can't through call them directly.

Neal W

Sat, Apr 3, 2010 : 6:34 p.m.

Renden was a great kid who had a lot going for him. He always had a positive attitude and always had a line that would make anyone laugh. Renden was a fun loving person who had the ability to brighten any room he stepped into. My heart goes out to his family and friends.

Cynthia

Sat, Apr 3, 2010 : 6:30 p.m.

I saw it when it was happening and it felt like forever till I was able to talk to the fire department... surprising how no neighbors came out to help but it was very very late like 5am so I guess ppl were all deep asleep... I was tossing turning all night praying that no one else was in the house but..... this is so sad.... still praying for them....

cwoolf

Sat, Apr 3, 2010 : 5:57 p.m.

Wow, in shock... I went to Dexter High School with Renden. He was a year older than me. Very positive kid, great soccer player, had a bright future. He will be missed.

thurber

Sat, Apr 3, 2010 : 5:46 p.m.

Heartbreaking news.