LANSING, Mich. — One person is dead and three others were hospitalized following an early-morning fire in Lansing.

The fire broke out shortly before 3 a.m. in the 100 block of South Clemens Avenue. Among those hospitalized was a Lansing firefighter, who has since been released. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, and the conditions of the two remaining injured individuals have not yet been released.

In a separate incident, Lansing Fire officials are also investigating a car fire that spread to a liquor store near West Miller Road and South Washington Avenue just after midnight. No injuries were reported, but the fire caused damage to the building and forced the road to close for several hours.

Meanwhile, the East Lansing Human Rights Commission is accusing the city of overcharging for Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests. The dispute stems from the commission’s attempt to obtain records related to the pepper spraying of two men by police during Michigan State University’s Welcome Weekend last year. Commissioners say the city requested nearly $900 in fees and have announced plans to petition the mayor to waive the cost.

East Lansing City Council is also set to introduce an ordinance at today’s meeting that would ban camping in public locations within city limits. Under the proposed measure, first-time offenders could face fines of up to $25. Repeat violations could result in misdemeanor charges carrying up to 30 days in jail and/or fines of up to $100. Supporters argue the ordinance would address makeshift campsites downtown, while critics say it would simply relocate the issue without addressing its root causes.

Consumers Energy is reaching out to customers concerned about high utility bills from January. The company reports that the average household used approximately 25 percent more natural gas this January compared to the same month last year. Consumers says customers with the most significant bill increases will be contacted about payment assistance and energy-saving options. The utility also encourages customers to call 211 to connect with nonprofit organizations offering financial assistance.

In other local news, Lansing Director of Human Relations and Community Services Kimberly Coleman has announced her resignation, effective February 13. Coleman will continue to work with the city’s Nova housing initiative following her departure.

Finally, the Michigan Department of Transportation is asking for public feedback through an online survey regarding its Strategic Highway Safety Plan and Vulnerable Road User Safety Assessment programs. The survey will remain open until March 15.