Firefighters responded to 911 calls at about 8:40 p.m. on Thursday reporting a fire in a four-story building on Ogilvie Road, between Palmerston Drive and Cadboro Road. One person told CTV News Ottawa that they heard an explosion. The Ottawa 911 Emergency Response Center received more than 60 calls about the fire shortly after it started. By the time firefighters arrived at the scene, the building was completely engulfed in smoke and flames. Firefighters were seen passing by the building looking for occupants. Ottawa Fire photographer Scott Stilborn said at 9:19 p.m. that all firefighters had been ordered to leave the building due to “collapse concerns”. The fire was brought under control at 22:20 No one was injured in the blaze, and several pets were rescued from the building, including a dog that was returned to its owner. The Ottawa Fire told CTV News Ottawa on Friday that eight of the 13 units had suffered severe fire damage. The other five units in the building were damaged by smoke and water. “Something I would not want to see again,” said neighbor Susan Labelle. “I did not sleep all night, and I have not slept yet.” Initial investigation shows that the fire started on an outside wall and spread to the attic of the building. Officials say the fire is not suspected. Images from the scene showed the fire spreading to many floors of the building, with flames coming out of the roof. “Amazing job for highly skilled firefighters,” said Kim Ayotte, director general of the Ottawa Emergency and Protection Services. “Thank you very much for not reporting any serious injuries at this time.” “Everyone, thank God, was able to get out of their homes,” Labelle said. Beacon Hill-Cyrville Coun. Tim Tierney said the city of Ottawa and partner services are on the scene to help residents displaced by the fire.
CONCENTRATION OF YEARS FOR RESIDENTS
The building was operated by Better Living Residential Co-Op “Everyone is safe and secure – and we’re working to put them in place right now,” said property manager Yvonne Ashby. “We are working to find them places to stay for the next period, while we will tidy up our building.” Coun. Tim Tierney says he will raise funds and collect items in conjunction with the Better Living Residential Co-Op to help residents displaced by the fire. The event will take place on Sunday from 10:30 to 12:00 at 1350 Ogilvie Road, with coffee, donuts and hot chocolate. Residents are invited to come forward and contribute to the fundraiser. Tierney says the essentials include:
Grocery cards Cash donations Restaurant gift cards Checks may be made on “Better Living Residential Co-Op” Batteries, phone chargers, USB or lightning chargers Care items
With files from Peter Szperling of CTV News Ottawa
