Toronto police are investigating a suspected arson after an early Wednesday morning fire at a restaurant near Eglinton Avenue West and Bathurst Street forced residents from their homes and damaged neighbouring businesses.
Emergency crews responded around 2:43 a.m. following reports of a fire and a possible explosion. Upon arrival, firefighters encountered heavy smoke coming from the rear of the building and a significant blaze in the restaurant’s basement.
Toronto Fire said the main fire was quickly brought under control, but smoke spread throughout the building, prompting the evacuation of residents living in units above the restaurant. Eight people were displaced and have secured temporary accommodations, though it is not yet known when they will be allowed to return.
Two adjacent businesses also sustained damage. Although four people were assessed by paramedics at the scene, no injuries were reported and no one required hospital treatment.
Fire officials said they have not confirmed reports of an explosion and crews remained at the scene throughout the day to monitor for hotspots.
Toronto police are treating the incident as a suspected arson and are asking anyone with information, surveillance footage, dashcam video, or cellphone recordings from the area to contact investigators.