The investigation into the suspicious fire at the Golden Rooster in Colborne started on Sunday, January 24, 2021.
The ferocious fire consumed the restaurant within minutes on Friday, January 22, 2021.. Cramahe, Brighton and Trent Hills Fire Department battled the flames, but the historic building was lost before crews had even arrived on scene by videos that have been sent to Today’s Northumberland. Hamilton Township Fire Department was called for air support (to fill breathing apparatus).
On Sunday, two investigators from the Ontario Fire Marshal’s office were on scene to begin what could be a lengthy investigation.
Other people on scene were Cramahe Township Deputy Mayor Sandra Arthur, members of the Cramahe Township Fire Department, Trent Hills Fire Department with their aerial ladder, Northumberland OPP, Northumberland OPP Crime Unit and OPP Central Region Forensics.
Fire Investigator Jason Williams used Trent Hills platform truck to take photos above the empty shell that used to house the restaurant.
Williams took photos of debris that accumulated in the basement.
Witnesses stated the first sign of fire was coming from the basement around 6 p.m. on Friday, but within a very short period of time flames were bursting out windows.
Part of the investigation will be sifting through the debris in the basement, basically removing layers of debris to hopefully determine how the fire started.
Today’s Northumberland has also learned of a vehicle fire that appeared to be intentionally set just after Christmas on the property.
Cramahe Township Fire Department responded to a vehicle with smoke coming from the windows at approximately 2:40 p.m. on December 26 that was in the driveway of the Golden Rooster by Toronto Road.
Firefighters quickly extinguished the fire and notified Northumberland OPP.
The fire appears to have been intentionally set in the rear of the newer model vehicle.
On Monday, crews will arriving to shut off the natural gas to the building and a back-hoe will ten be used to remove areas of the building that are still standing to make it safe for investigators.
The Northumberland OPP is asking for the public’s assistance with this ongoing investigation and would ask that anyone with information to call their nearest OPP detachment at 1-888-310-1122.
Should you wish to remain anonymous, you may call the Peterborough/Northumberland Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) where you may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $2,000 and not have to appear in court. You can also submit information online at www.stopcrimehere.ca
Breaking News – Video – Golden Rooster Destroyed By Suspicious Fire in Colborne
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
