A three-alarm fire claimed the lives of four people from up to two different homes in the east Toronto area on Friday morning.
Firefighters responded to a call at 5 am of a structure fire near Coxwell Avenue and Eastwood Road.
The fire caught the neighbouring home, as well. In total, six were evacuated, with four being pronounced dead.
On behalf of all of us at @Toronto_Fire, I extend deepest condolences to family, friends and all those impacted by the tragic fatal fire on Gainsborough Road this morning.
— Matthew Pegg (@ChiefPeggTFS) January 29, 2021
"At this time, Toronto Fire Services is confirming four deceased at this fire. Two other victims are still in hospital and their conditions are unknown," said Toronto Fire Deputy Chief Jim Jessop said.
"A- we had a firefighter overcome with heat, B- a firefigher caught in the flash over, and C- a firefighter fell through the floor. I'm happy to report that they will report to duty very shortly and they are fine," Jessop continued, according to CP24.
@TTChelps on scene at a structure fire in east end, providing shelter and warming buses to support our community members. @TPSOperations @Toronto_Fire @TorontoEMS_live pic.twitter.com/4txNyjj9sp
— Malcolm M (@TTC146Eminem) January 29, 2021
"This was a significant fire. The conditions that the women and men of Toronto Fire that entered that building and are still going and conducting primary and secondary searches now were extreme. The fire was venting out, it was free burning."