Storms knock out power to thousands in Michigan

Consumers Energy said thousands of its customers statewide lost electrical service following severe thunderstorms that moved across Michigan.

AP Wire

Aug 1, 2012

The subsidiary of CMS Energy Corp. said the west side of the state was hit the hardest late Monday and early Tuesday. About 6,700 homes and businesses remained blacked out in Allegan County on Tuesday afternoon. More than 4,300 remained without power in Newaygo County.

A tree fell onto a home early Tuesday near Fremont in Newaygo County, killing a couple in bed. Authorities said the victims are 65-year-old William Vandekieft and his 64-year-old wife, Nancy.

The tree fell around 7:30 a.m. A neighbor saw the damage and called authorities. There were wind gusts of at least 40 mph.