Deputies: Fire leads to discovery of marijuana grow operation

While responding to a fire at a home on Stateline Road in Niles Township, deputies with the Berrien County Sheriff's Office discovered a marijuana grow operation in the home, according to sheriff's office reports.

The Niles Township Fire Department and deputies with the sheriff's office responded to a house fire in the 1100 block of Stateline Road at 4:15 on September 20.

The fire destroyed nearly a third of the home and caused over $60,000 worth of damage.

The homeowner and his two children were home at the time of the fire.

The homeowner, 34-year-old Luther Borders, sustained minor injuries in the fire and sought treatment.

While on scene, firefighters and deputies discovered evidence of marijuana manufacturing in the home, reports said.

The sheriff's office's Narcotics Unit responded to the scene and obtained a search warrant for the residence.

Inside, they seized marijuana, marijuana plants and other evidence related to the manufacturing of marijuana, according to deputies.

The Michigan State Police Fire Marshall Division also responded to the scene and determined that the cause of this fire was accidental and partially caused by the equipment used to manufacture marijuana, according to deputies.

Borders was arrested by deputies on a probation violation.

Children's Protective Services was contacted to assist in the investigation because children lived at the home.

The Berrien County Prosecutor’s Office will review the case for charges.