Fire at vacant Hamilton buildings causes $1 million in damages

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Published January 11, 2023 at 9:29 am

hamilton fire vacant buildings 45 47 ottawa st north east end police

Firefighters were busy early Wednesday morning with a major blaze in Hamilton’s east end that caused more than $1 million in damage.

A patrolling Hamilton police officer reported a fire on Ottawa St. North, between Main St. East and Dunsmure Rd., at around 3:40 a.m.

Smoke was visible at two boarded-up buildings: unit 45, a residential home, and unit 47, a residential home that had been converted to a commercial space.

The fire was quickly upgraded, and additional crews were dispatched throughout the city.

hamilton fire vacant buildings 45 47 ottawa st north east end police

45 (left) and 47 (right) Ottawa St. North in Hamilton before the fire caused $1 million in damages.

According to officials, the fire at unit 45 was brought under control within 20 minutes. However, the fire rapidly spread through unit 47, forcing firefighters to withdraw and initiate a defensive operation outside the building to prevent the flames from spreading further.

Within 40 minutes, the fire at unit 47 was brought under control, according to officials.

Both properties sustained significant structural damage, including a roof collapse.

Hamilton Fire believes the blaze started at 47 Ottawa St. North.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

The Ontario Fire Marshal has been notified.

No injuries to firefighters or civilians have been reported.

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