Fire devastates historic downtown buildings in Bowmanville, Ontario

A devastating fire swept through downtown Bowmanville in the early hours of Thursday morning, causing massive damage to historic buildings and forcing the evacuation of residents into warming buses.

The fire has affected the businesses and residential units on the south side of King Street from 69 King St. W. to 95 King St. W. Clarington Fire and emergency crews have been working through the night to contain the fire, with the assistance of Oshawa Fire. As of 8 a.m., the fire is under control but “not fully extinguished.”

The fire broke out in the apartments above the Talk of the Town restaurant at 69 King St. W. and the restaurant went on social media to say “it’s likely” that the shop “has been destroyed.”

“Thankfully everyone is safe,” the post said. “Our hearts go out to all the people and businesses affected by this – it’s truly heartbreaking.”

The Region of Durham’s Emergency Social Services team, along with Red Cross, are working with affected individuals to be rehoused.

“This morning, our community is heartbroken by a devastating fire in downtown Bowmanville,” said Clarington Mayor Adrian Foster. “Our hearts go out to everyone impacted.”

“We are sorrowful for the people who have lost their homes and businesses. As a community, we are grieving for the damage done to historic downtown Bowmanville – a beloved spot where residents shop and connect. Our municipality will do everything we can in the coming days, weeks, and months to support those affected by the fire as they rebuild and rise again.”

King Street West, between Scugog Street and Temperance Street, Church Street access from Scugog Street and Silver Street, between King Street West and Church Street, have been closed “until further notice” while fire crews work continue their efforts at the scene.

The Ontario Fire Marshal is investigating.