An explosion followed by a major fire destroyed a home in Barrie, Ontario on Saturday around noon, sending one person to the hospital in critical condition. The incident occurred on Marshall Street near Thorncrest Road and triggered a significant emergency response from Barrie fire crews, local police, and Simcoe County paramedics.
Security footage from a nearby resident captured the sudden explosion, which was followed by intense flames consuming the home. By the time emergency responders arrived, the house was already destroyed. Firefighters focused on controlling the blaze and protecting nearby properties, which sustained some minor damage but were deemed safe.
Six fire trucks were deployed to manage the situation. Authorities confirmed it was a reported explosion, and the injured individual was transported to hospital.
The Ontario Fire Marshal has been notified and is expected to investigate. The cause of the explosion and the full extent of the damage remain undetermined.
Update – A man, aged 45, has died from the explosion.