A second person has died due to a house fire in Richmond Hill, Ont., on Monday, according to York Regional Police.
The victim, a 24-year-old woman, passed away on Wednesday in the hospital. Police named her as Helya Bahari-Kashani from Richmond Hill, in a news release on Thursday.
An 11-year-old girl, who was also hurt in the fire, died in hospital on Tuesday. Three others injured in the incident remain critically ill in hospital.
The fire occurred near Skywood Drive and Rollinghill Road and is suspected to be arson. The fatalities are being treated as homicides.
Const. James Dickson, spokesperson for York Regional Police, stated on Thursday that all five individuals injured were members of the same family living at the residence.
“This is obviously an absolutely tragic event that has destroyed an entire family,” Dickson said.
Dickson mentioned that the fire appears to have been intentional and police do not think there’s any ongoing threat to public safety.
![]()
Firefighters are shown here on the scene of the deadly house fire in Richmond Hill on Monday, Sept. 1, 2025. (David Ritchie/ )
David West, mayor of Richmond Hill, called it “tragic” during an interview with on Wednesday after learning about the girl’s death.
“It really is a difficult time for the family especially, but it’s also a very difficult time for the community. I know the neighbours all around there. It’s very shocking to have that kind of thing happen,” West said.
“Our hearts go out, and our thoughts and prayers for sure, to all of the people directly and indirectly related to this tragedy.”
West encouraged community members to be patient while allowing police investigations to clarify what happened.
“Speculation in a situation like this is not helpful. And it fuels fear. We do live in a very safe community,” West added.
Police continue asking witnesses or anyone who was around at that time to get in touch with them. Those nearby are urged to check their security camera footage or dashboard camera recordings for any relevant information.
Source link
‘Very shocking,’ says city’s mayor
Emergency services responded to a report of a house fire just before 3 a. m. on Monday. According to police reports, four victims were discovered inside the home while another was found outside. All were transported to hospital in critical condition. Dickson noted that homicide detectives are still interviewing neighbors and witnesses for more information. No descriptions of suspects have been released yet.Source link
