Hamilton firefighter injured in downtown blaze

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Published December 20, 2022 at 9:16 am

hamilton fire downtown firefighter injured kind street walnut street mary street ward 2
At approximately 8:30 p.m. on Monday, Hamilton Fire responded to reports of a structure at 161 King St. East — between Mary and Walnut streets.

One firefighter was injured, and at least 16 units across Hamilton were called in to battle a downtown blaze Monday night.

At approximately 8:30 p.m., Hamilton Fire responded to reports of a structure at 161 King St. East — between Mary and Walnut streets.

The commercial unit was vacant after being occupied by the defunct thrift shop, Boyz Toyz. However, there is a residential unit above the vacant one and a dense row of neighbouring commercial and residential units.

hamilton fire downtown firefighter injured kind street walnut street mary street ward 2

161 King St. East in Hamilton

“First arriving crews reported a working fire and heavy smoke coming from the first and second floors of a two-and-a-half-storey building that had resident units above a commercial unit on the main floor,” said fire chief Dave Cunliffe.

“Concerned for fire spread to the adjacent buildings, the alarm was quickly upgraded, bringing additional crews from across the city.”

Firefighters entered the building to perform an aggressive attack and a search and rescue. Ladder trucks were used to gain access to the roof.

“Fire crews quickly brought the fire under control, but not before the building sustained significant damage,” said Cunliffe.

One firefighter was taken to hospital after suffering a hand laceration and has since been released.

Damage to the property is estimated to be over $500,000.

The Ontario fire marshall was notified.

Hamilton Fire does not consider the fire to be suspicious.

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