11 people in hospital following fire at YMCA in Hamilton
Published July 22, 2024 at 3:53 pm
Several people are in hospital after a fire broke out at a YMCA in Hamilton this afternoon.
Hamilton fire crew responded to reports of smoke emitting from the building on 79 James Street South, near the city’s downtown core.
The fire reportedly broke out on the building’s fifth floor shortly after 12:30 p.m.
Fifteen people were rescued, with 11 transported to the hospital, two of whom are in critical condition.
Five others were rescued using aerial ladders.
A user on X (formerly Twitter) named Sebastian Bron posted an image of paramedics moving a stretcher towards the scene.
Ten people taken to hospital after blaze at #HamOnt YMCA on James, per @HamiltonFireDep. Five others rescued via aerial ladders. Fire contained to third-floor unit, cause yet determined. More to come @TheSpec pic.twitter.com/M0OF12kjCw
— Sebastian Bron (@sbron_) July 22, 2024
Another user on X, Joey Coleman, posted an image of a paramedic with bottles of water stationed on a stretcher, stating it was being taken to evacuees from the men’s residence of the YMCA.
.@HPS_Paramedics providing ongoing support to the evacuated residents of the YMCA Men’s residence. Transporting and providing bottled water at the present time. #hamont @ymcahbb pic.twitter.com/n1ARlKHAQ4
— Joey Coleman (@JoeyColeman) July 22, 2024
Hamilton Public Library says, “If anyone is planning to be in the area, including stopping at the Central Library, can expect some delays.”
If you are heading to Central Library, please give yourself extra time. #HamOnt https://t.co/6Kbk8QVu1z
— Hamilton PL (@HamiltonLibrary) July 22, 2024
Officials have reported that “the fire is under control.” However, it has not been confirmed if the incident happened specifically at the men’s residence and whether it was inside one unit or multiple units were affected.
The cause of the fire and the extent of the damages are still under investigation.
Hamilton Police have closed roads from Main Street to Hunter Street for both southbound and northbound traffic. The closures are expected to remain in place for several hours.
Drivers are advised to seek alternate routes.
INthehammer's Editorial Standards and Policies🚨 **Road Closure Alert** 🚨
Due to an ongoing Fire investigation at 79 James Street S, James Street is closed from Main Street to Hunter Street. We anticipate for several hours.
Please plan ahead and take alternative routes.
Watch video for more information.
Thank you for… pic.twitter.com/8KRBbBkbWk
— Hamilton Police (@HamiltonPolice) July 22, 2024