Man and cat killed in apartment fire in Hamilton’s east mountain

One person is dead and another in hospital after a fire on Fennell Avenue in Hamilton early Thursday morning.

Hamilton Fire received a report of structure fire just before 5 a.m. at the four-storey DeLaurentian apartments, with crews arriving to heavy smoke and fire venting from an apartment on the fourth floor.

As firefighters entered the apartment they were met with high heat, heavy smoke, and flames but were able to locate two victims.

A woman was found in the living room and placed in the care of Hamilton Paramedics. She was taken to hospital in critical condition, with her condition since updated to stable.

A man found in the bedroom, where the fire occurred, succumbed to his injuries.

A cat also died in the fire.

The fire was contained to the apartment and soon brought under control. The apartment has sustained extensive fire and smoke damage, with current estimates at $150,000.

Hamilton Fire Chief David Cunliffe said no other injuries have been reported. The Office of the Fire Marshal has been notified and is responding to assist with the investigation. The scene is being held by Hamilton Police.