Tragic Fire in Old Montreal: 2 Dead, 1 Critically Injured as Blaze Devastates Historic Building
Montreal – A devastating fire swept through a century-old building in the historic district of Old Montreal early Friday morning, leaving at least two persons dead and one critically injured. Authorities are now investigating the cause of the blaze, which broke out on the ground floor of the building, situated on Notre-Dame Street East.
Montreal police have taken over the investigation, deeming the fire suspicious. So far, one individual has been hospitalized with burns, and another was treated for shock at the scene but did not require hospitalization. It remains unclear whether there are additional victims.
The building, constructed in 1923, is owned by Emile Benamor, who also owns a nearby heritage building that was the site of a fatal fire in March 2023, resulting in the tragic deaths of seven people.
Montreal Fire Department officials revealed that about 125 firefighters were dispatched to contain the blaze, which broke out at around 2:40 a.m. in a restaurant on the building’s ground floor. The upper levels of the structure were reportedly being used for short-term rentals. The fire was declared a five-alarm emergency—the highest level—within 30 minutes of being reported.
George Bele, a spokesperson for the Montreal Fire Department, stated, “The flames spread quickly from the ground floor to the upper levels. At this point, we’re operating in a defensive strategy to contain the fire.”
Due to the age and configuration of the historic district, the situation proved particularly challenging for firefighters, as the narrow streets and row-style buildings made it difficult to access the site. Smoke billowed from the scene for several blocks, with firefighters still working to extinguish the flames as of Friday afternoon.
Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante expressed her concern on X, saying, “My thoughts are with the victims and everyone affected by the fire.”
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have cordoned off the area for safety and further inspection.
Source: The Canadian Press
