A large fire damaged several townhouse units early Monday morning in Stoney Creek, prompting a major response from Hamilton firefighters.
Crews were called to a townhouse complex on Echovalley Drive shortly after 4 a.m. after multiple emergency calls reported the blaze. According to Hamilton Fire Chief David Cunliffe, strong winds pushed the flames eastward, allowing the fire to spread quickly through the building.
At its peak, flames were rising about 12 metres into the air as nearly 50 firefighters worked to contain the fire. Crews launched an aggressive exterior attack from both the front and back of the structure and managed to stop the spread, though six units were affected.
Five of those homes suffered major damage, while another had damage to the attic. Roofs and sections of flooring collapsed, making it unsafe for investigators to enter the building.
No residents were injured, but one firefighter was taken to hospital as a precaution due to smoke inhalation. Between seven and 10 people were displaced from the affected units.
Officials say the total cost of the damage has not yet been determined, but it is expected to be significant. The cause of the fire remains unknown, and the Ontario Fire Marshal’s office has been notified as the investigation continues.
Mud Street West is closed between First Road West and Paramount Drive while crews remain on scene.