Fire rips through historic Hamilton property under renovations

Fire crews worked through the early morning on Monday to control a fire that ripped through a heritage property in Hamilton’s east end.

Smoke was reported at the rear of the three-storey building just after 4:30 a.m. at 577 Barton St. East near Birch Ave.

Fire was discovered on the second and third floors.

Crews are active at a multiple alarm structure fire at 570 Barton Street East. Building is unoccupied and under construction. Fire is under control but crews will be on scene for some time. #HamOnt #StrongForYou pic.twitter.com/E6iEMUT4Qf

— Hamilton Fire Department (@HamiltonFireDep) January 30, 2023

Because the vacant property is undergoing renovations, the fire spread quickly into the attic and through the roof.

“Given that rapid advancement and growth of the fire, the alarm was further upgraded… bringing additional resources from across the city,” said David Cunliffe. “Two aerial ladders were deployed to assist with roof operations while interior crews dealt with heavy fire and smoke on both the second and third floor.”

577 Barton St. East (Google Maps/June 2022)

Hamilton Fire says the blaze was brought under control in 30 minutes, but not before the second and third floors and roof area suffered significant damage.

Officials did not provide a cause or damage estimate.

No injuries have been reported.

The Ontario fire marshal has been notified.