DETROIT (WXYZ) — A homicide investigation is underway following the shooting death of a Detroit mother and a suspected arson at her home.
Police say her little boy is also fighting for his life after being pulled from the burning home. The 5-year-old boy is still in critical condition. A neighbor and friend says this tragedy is still so hard to believe.
The deputy Detroit fire commissioner confirms flames tore through the home on Clayburn, which is north of Warren Avenue, just after noon on Tuesday. Police say a neighborhood officer saw the fire while patrolling near the home and called for backup right away.
The neighbor recalls the mother in her 30s moving in a few years ago and says she often played with her son on the front lawn. Police say so far they've not been able to notify loved ones of her death and won't be releasing a name anytime soon.
Investigators also say they found the woman also with a gunshot wound.
The investigation is now focusing on possible arson. Investigators say the female victim was still alive when they first managed to get her out of the home. Her son remains in the hospital in critical condition with severe burns and smoke inhalation. Police are still trying to determine a motive as well as identify a suspect.
If you have information on this case, contact Detroit police.
