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Tag: Old Montreal building fire

  • Car Set Ablaze at Home of Montreal Landlord Linked to Fatal Fires, Raising Security Concerns

    Car Set Ablaze at Home of Montreal Landlord Linked to Fatal Fires, Raising Security Concerns

    Second Attack in a Week Targets Émile Benamor, Owner of Old Montreal Buildings Involved in Tragic Fires

    In the early hours of Thursday, a car was deliberately set on fire in the driveway of a home in Montreal’s West Island, reportedly belonging to Émile Benamor, the landlord and lawyer who owns two Old Montreal buildings where fatal fires occurred. This latest criminal incident follows another attack just a week earlier, when Benamor’s office in Old Montreal was shot at, adding to growing concerns over his safety.

    According to Montreal police, they responded to a call about the blaze at a residence on Whitehead Terrasse, near Lake Shore Drive in Dorval. A gas can was found near the burning vehicle, leading authorities to believe an accelerant was used. The suspect reportedly fled on foot before police arrived, leaving the car destroyed. Fortunately, no injuries or damage to the nearby home were reported.

    Recent Tragic Fires Linked to the Property Owner

    This is the second alarming incident involving Benamor in just over a week. Last Tuesday, gunshots were fired at his office in Old Montreal, escalating fears for his security.

    Benamor has been thrust into the spotlight following two deadly fires in properties he owns. The most recent tragedy occurred on October 4, 2024, claiming the lives of a 43-year-old mother and her seven-year-old daughter. This comes just 19 months after another devastating fire in March 2023, which left seven people dead.

    Authorities have made significant progress in the investigation of the October fire, with two men arrested and charged with second-degree murder. Meanwhile, the investigation into the 2023 fire remains ongoing, with the Crown Prosecutor’s office yet to decide whether charges will be laid.

    Growing Safety Concerns Amid Legal Battles

    While Benamor continues to face scrutiny over the safety of his buildings, the recent attacks have raised concerns over his safety. The two fatal fires have led to public outrage and an ongoing investigation into the safety regulations of the properties he owns.

    Montreal police are continuing their investigation into both the arson and shooting incidents, with no arrests made yet with these attacks. As the cases unfold, the incidents involving Benamor have spotlighted broader concerns about tenant safety, building regulations, and the security of those entangled in legal controversies.

    Source: Swifteradio.com

  • Montreal Firefighters Honored for Heroic Rescue in 2023 Blaze That Claimed Seven Lives

    Montreal Firefighters Honoured for Heroic Rescue in 2023 Blaze That Claimed Seven Lives

    Five brave Montreal firefighters have been honored for their courageous efforts in saving lives during a deadly five-alarm fire that engulfed an Old Montreal building on March 16, 2023. The fire, which tragically claimed seven lives, saw these firefighters risk their safety to rescue five people from the blaze.

    Firefighters Keith Brown, Julien Berjot, and Claude Smith were among the first responders who faced overwhelming flames and thick smoke. They immediately rushed to save three individuals trapped on the second floor, with flames threatening their lives. Using portable ladders, Brown and Berjot heroically pulled two people to safety, despite facing challenges such as broken glass and severe injuries.

    One man, desperately jumping from a window, was caught in mid-air by Brown and Berjot, who saved his life while clinging to the ladder high above the ground. Brown, despite dislocating his shoulder during the rescue, continued to fight the fire for another two hours. Smith, a veteran firefighter, skillfully maneuvered the aerial ladder, ensuring everyone’s safe descent before the flames surged again.

    Last Sunday, Berjot and Brown were awarded the prestigious Cross of Courage at a ceremony in Quebec City, while Smith, along with firefighters Benoit Bourgie and Kevin Graindlair-Laroche, received the Meritorious Service Medal for their lifesaving efforts.

    Although the firefighters mourn the loss of seven lives, they remain at peace knowing they saved nine others, an accomplishment they hold close. The 2023 fire remains the most intense and emotional experience of their careers, and their heroism continues to resonate with the community.

    Source: Swifteradio.com