A “fast-moving” fire in Hamilton’s industrial area severely damaged a home Wednesday evening, resulting in the deaths of eight pets and leaving a family of six without shelter, according to the Hamilton Fire Department.
Fire crews were dispatched to 103 Gertrude St., close to Gage Avenue and Burlington Street, around 6:54 p. m. after receiving reports of a structure fire, as stated in a news release from the Hamilton Fire Department issued Wednesday.
Upon arrival, firefighters discovered a two-storey house completely engulfed in flames, with thick smoke billowing and fire spreading to nearby homes at 101 and 105 Gertrude St.
Initially, it was uncertain if anyone was inside the house, prompting firefighters to launch an “aggressive interior search and rescue” operation while also working on containing the fire.
Fire Chief Dave Cunliffe mentioned in the release that the blaze seems to have begun outside at the back of the home before climbing up an exterior wall and moving indoors. Flames also reached the rear exterior walls of adjacent houses.
“The fire was brought under control in approximately 25 minutes,” the release states.
No injuries were reported among residents or firefighters. Tragically, two dogs and six cats lost their lives in the blaze.
Officials later confirmed that two adults and four children who lived in the home were not present when the fire started.
Cunliffe noted that firefighters’ efforts helped minimize damage to neighboring homes despite how intense the fire was.
The house where the fire originated suffered around $750,000 in damages, while each of the neighboring houses incurred about $40,000 worth of damage, according to the release.
The family affected by this incident is receiving support from the Canadian Red Cross as they arrange for temporary housing.
The cause of the fire remains “undetermined,” police say. The Ontario Fire Marshal’s Office has been notified but did not attend at this time.
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