An Ontario landlord has received a jail sentence after being found guilty on seven counts related to a fire in Brampton that resulted in the deaths of a pregnant woman and her young daughter over three years ago.
This landlord, who faced charges under Ontario’s Fire Protection and Prevention Act, 1997, was given 135 days in jail and two years of probation, according to a news release from the City of Brampton on Tuesday. The landlord must also pay fines totaling $50,000 along with an additional $10,000 for victim surcharges.
The fire occurred at 47 Jade Crescent on June 2, 2023 around 11 p. m. The young girl who lost her life was just three years old. Another family member sustained lifelong injuries as a result of the fire.
Brampton Fire and Emergency Services filed the seven charges against the landlord, which included violations regarding fire separations as well as the proper installation and maintenance of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
Investigators found that while the property was legally registered as a two-unit dwelling, it had been illegally converted into four units without obtaining necessary permits. The extra units were rented out despite failing to meet Ontario Building Code and Fire Code standards, putting tenants in significant danger, as stated by city officials.
Landlords are required to have functional smoke alarms
Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown remarked in a statement on Tuesday that these tragic deaths could have been avoided.
“The loss of a mother and her young daughter is a tragedy our community will not forget, and our thoughts remain with their family and loved ones,” Brown said.
“While no investigation or court outcome can undo this profound loss, this tragedy is an important reminder of why fire safety requirements exist,” Brown added. “Every Brampton resident deserves to feel safe in their home, and property owners have a responsibility to ensure required smoke alarms are installed, maintained and working.”
Andy Glynn, Brampton’s fire chief, emphasized that this incident highlights how crucial it is for every home to have operational smoke alarms and for all landlords to comply with Ontario’s Fire Code.
“These requirements exist to protect lives and give people critical time to escape when a fire occurs. I urge residents to test their smoke alarms regularly and property owners to know and follow the legislation. Those who violate the legislation and put lives at risk will be held accountable,” Glynn said.
Ontario Fire Marshal Jon Pegg extended his “deepest condolences” to the grieving family. He pointed out that this incident serves as a reminder for every landlord in Ontario about their legal obligation to ensure smoke alarms are installed properly in their properties.
“Working smoke alarms save lives by providing critical early warning when every second counts. Knowing and complying with Ontario’s Fire Code is essential to keeping people safe in their homes,” Pegg said.
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