Five in hospital, four missing after Oshawa townhouse fire

Oshawa's fire department was called to respond to a fire at 1:00 am. By the time they arrived, the townhome was engulfed in flames.

Firefighters pulled five people from the burning building, three of whom are in serious condition. One of those in serious condition is a 10-year-old boy. Injuries sustained by victims include burns and smoke inhalation-related problems.

The building is inhabited by a grandfather, his adult children, and three grandchildren.

Fire Chief Derrick Clark described the damage as "extensive" and said that it was "very difficult for our crews" to contain and fight the fire. By 5:00 am, the fire was still not entirely put out, and fire crews say that they still have not been able to search the three-story townhouse. "This is going to be a very long and difficult scene," Clark said.

Seven dwellings along the street were ultimately impacted by the fire, with eight people having been temporarily relocated to hotels. The road remains closed at the moment while fire crews continue to occupy the scene.