Early morning blaze in Hamilton causes ‘millions of dollars’ worth of damage

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Published September 30, 2020 at 1:26 pm

The damage caused by a fire at an industrial complex in Hamilton’s Northeast End Wednesday (Sept. 30) morning is to cost somewhere in the millions of dollars.

The damage caused by a fire at an industrial complex in Hamilton’s Northeast End Wednesday (Sept. 30) morning is to cost somewhere in the millions of dollars.

A press release from the Hamilton Fire Department (HFD) says the cause of the fire remains unknown, but no injuries have been reported.

“Damage to the involved units is significant including a furniture business, a microbrewery and a food wholesaler,” the release says.

“There is also heavy smoke damage to the units/businesses on either side.”

Fire crews were called to 420 Parkdale Avenue North, between Rennie and Mohoney, to reports of a structure fire.

Crews arriving on scene reported heavy smoke and flames visible from the commercial building that houses several businesses.

More crews were then called in, the release says.

“Crews quickly initiated interior firefighting operations. Due to rapidly changing/detreating conditions along with reports of a compromised roof structure, the interior crews were forced to back out. As the crews were exiting the building heavy fire broke through the roof,” it said.

Exterior firefighting operations then got underway and eventually, the fire was brought under control just after 6 am, but the damage had been done.

“Given the nature of the fire the Ministry of the Environment was notified and has responded to the scene,” the release said.

The Ontario Fire Marshal’s Office has been notified given the potential dollar loss value.

It is expected that crews will be on scene for most of the day extinguishing hot spots.

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