Detroit Demolishes First of 20 Fire-Gutted Houses

DETROIT (AP) - Crews have demolished the first two of about 20 houses gutted by fires that raged earlier this week across parts of Detroit.

A house on Moenart was torn down Friday morning, followed by a demolition on Robinwood. Both houses are on the city's east side.

At least 85 structures, including houses and garages, were destroyed or scorched Tuesday by flames fed by high winds and hot temperatures. No injuries were reported.

Detroit Buildings & Safety Engineering Director Karla Henderson says federal stimulus money already earmarked for Detroit will pay for the demolitions.

There are about 33,000 vacant houses in Detroit. The city is tearing down 3,000 this year and the same number in 2011.