Ottawa is mourning after a devastating fire in a Centretown highrise has now claimed three lives, the latest victim dying Tuesday, days after the blaze tore through the top floor of a seniors residence on Somerset Street West.
The fire broke out around 9:30 p.m. Saturday night at an Ottawa Community Housing building near Bank Street. When firefighters arrived, smoke and flames were visible through a balcony door on the 19th floor of the 250-unit building, which houses seniors.
What Happened
Four people were inside the burning unit when the fire started. Three were found unconscious inside the apartment, and a fourth person was discovered on the balcony. One victim was pronounced dead at the scene. A second person died by Sunday morning. The third victim, the most recent fatality, was critically injured and died Tuesday, Ottawa police confirmed.
At least one other person sustained minor injuries in the blaze.
Investigation Ongoing
The Ontario Fire Marshal's office has taken the lead on investigating the cause of the fire. As of Tuesday, no cause had been officially determined.
Ottawa Community Housing, which operates the building, has not yet released a public statement on the tragedy.
A Devastating Loss for the Community
The Somerset Street building is home to 250 senior residents, making the fire particularly devastating for one of Ottawa's most vulnerable communities. Losing three neighbours to a single fire is a profound tragedy for everyone who lives there.
For residents, this is a reminder of how critical fire safety measures and emergency preparedness are in multi-unit residential buildings, particularly those serving elderly tenants.
If you or someone you know was affected by this fire and needs housing support, Ottawa Community Housing can be reached at 613-236-3566.
Source: CBC Ottawa
