A fire in the 1700 block of Benjamin Avenue Wednesday morning caused smoke damage to both a home and an attached restaurant. Windsor Fire and Rescue Service says the blaze began outside the building, though the exact cause is still under investigation.
About 30 firefighters responded and found smoke coming from the two-storey mixed-use property. While crews searched the interior, light smoke was detected inside, and the fire was later located in a rear garage connected to the structure. The incident also drew support from paramedics, Windsor police, and Enwin Utilities.
Six residents were forced from their home, and one person was treated at the scene for chest pain. Fire officials determined the flames originated in a shed before spreading to the garage. Damage is estimated at more than $40,000, and both hydro and gas service have been shut off as the investigation continues.