A firefighter was taken to hospital as a precaution after emergency crews responded to reports of an explosion and fire at a building on Gore Street in Sault Ste. Marie on Thursday.
Police, firefighters and paramedics arrived at the scene around 11:45 a.m., where significant smoke and flames were visible. Fire crews contained and extinguished the blaze but remained at the scene as the investigation continued.
Officials reported no other injuries.
The fire caused extensive damage to the main level of a commercial building, with multi-unit residential space on the second floor. Gore Street and surrounding areas were subjected to road closures, and residents and motorists were advised to use alternate routes.
The incident remains under investigation, with the Ontario Fire Marshal expected to attend.