Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and the Office of the Fire Marshal are looking into a fire that occurred on Tuesday at a seniors’ apartment building in Fort Frances, Ont., resulting in the death of a 92-year-old resident.
Rose Manor, managed by the District of Rainy River Services Board, has 35 rent-geared-to-income units for individuals aged 60 and over.
Emergency services, including police, fire, and paramedics, were dispatched to the fire on Sixth Street East shortly after 5:20 a. m. CT, according to Fort Frances OPP on Wednesday.
“Following reports of an individual still inside, firefighters entered the building and located a 92-year-old individual who was pronounced deceased at the scene. All other residents were safely evacuated from the building,” said a Fort Frances OPP news release.
The statement mentioned that Fort Frances OPP’s Crime Unit is conducting an investigation alongside the fire marshal and the Office of the Chief Coroner.
Temporary Housing Provided for Residents
Around 7,500 people live in Fort Frances, a northwestern Ontario town situated just across the Rainy River from International Falls, Minn.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the District of Rainy River Services Board confirmed the tenant’s passing. “We are grateful to all those who have assisted in the response and in supporting residents during this difficult time.” – Deb Ewald, chair of the District of Rainy River Services Board
“On behalf of the board, I extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends and neighbours of the tenant we have lost,” said board chair Deb Ewald, who also serves as mayor of Rainy River.
“Our thoughts are also with the Rose Manor residents and everyone affected by this tragic event. We are grateful to all those who have assisted in the response and in supporting residents during this difficult time.”
The board stated that all other tenants have been provided with temporary accommodations while staff and crisis support workers “continue to work directly with tenants to address immediate needs and provide support.”
The OPP Fort Frances Crime Unit is investigating the Tuesday fire in collaboration with the provincial fire marshal and chief coroner’s offices. (OPP)
“Access to the property remains restricted while investigation and safety assessment activities continue,” added the board.
Fort Frances Fire and Rescue Services reported that crews stayed at the site for several hours but won’t be releasing further information at this time.
<p“We thank Ontario Provincial Police, Rainy River District Paramedic Services, Fort Frances Power Corp., local gas utility personnel, Canadian Red Cross, Victim Services staff from District of Rainy River Services Board , and all other agencies who helped with emergency response efforts while continuing to support affected residents,” stated their service on Tuesday.
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