Tar like substances causing controversy at Monroe business

MONROE, Mich. (WXYZ) - Small wild animals are dying in an industrial field in Monroe County.

People working nearby believe the animals are being smothered by a thick, tar like substance 7 Action News photographed oozing out of two large cylinders on the property.

Daniel Lovett works at Tire Management Recycling, a company which is in the process of being evicted by the property owner. Lovett says the owner, Roger Homrich, is trying to cover-up rather than clean up the spill.

Lovett showed 7 Action News several animals who apparently got stuck and died trying to free themselves.

"They didn't stand a chance," he said.

Homrich arrived while 7 Action News was at the site and, although he informed us we were all trespassing, he did agree to be interviewed.

We were somewhat surprised when he admitted, "Yes it's contaminated, certified by the great state of Michigan."

When asked why he would rent the property, he said the small amount is allowed because its an industrial site.

Homrich added the cylinder started leaking because vandals opened them up.

"We filed a police report, they'll get 'em," he said.

Alisa Cosby owns the adjacent company where Daniel Lovett works and is embroiled in a legal battle with landlord Homrich.

She says she's asked the city, county and state to do something about the substance.

"No one will help us," she says. "My concern when I saw it was the nearby creek that goes to the Raisin River. I think this is a cover up of an environmental hazard."

No one was available for an interview at the Monroe City Hall but we are being told that there hasn't been a formal complaint or request for an inspection by anyone at Tire Management.