Two people are dead and another person sent to hospital following a house fire in Port Hope on Friday, October 8, 2021.
Emergency services responded to the fire at a duplex on Bruton Street at approximately 11:25 a.m.
Port Hope Police Inspector Katie Andrews said police received an emergency call stating their was an explosion and neighbours reported smoke coming from the residence.
While responding, Port Hope Fire and Emergency Services were notified the windows were breaking due to the intense heat and flames were erupting from the residence.
Fire Chief Dan Smith said upon arrival there was heavy smoke and flames visible.
“It is a multi-unit residential with rescues attempted in both occupancies.”
Upon arrival firefighters initially worked with police trying to rescue the victims.
“It was a tremendous effort on their part,” said Port Hope Fire and Emergency Services Chief Dan Smith.
Structure fires in Port Hope are “very low” in numbers and Smith said it is “uncommon” to have a daytime fire in a residential neighbourhood.
“And even more uncommon to spread to a multi-unit such as this.”
“Our responders did an absolutely amazing job. Both from police and fire.”
“The initial rescue was completed by both a firefighter and police officer.”
“Tremendous effort on their part.”
Both victims were found in the one residence and Smith added the victims were found in different locations.
“High heat which made it difficult to conduct the search.”
Most of the fire was confined to the main floor of the residence. But smoke and fire damage also occurred throughout the one side of the duplex with smoke damage to the other side of the residence.
“It definitely is tragic. It hits hard with all the responders, with the community itself. We’ve had people driving by (wanting) to come in to check in on their neighbours and their family to see that everyone’s ok.”
“It definitely is emotional. This is a tight knit town and everybody does know everybody.”
“And this is fire prevention week which makes it that much more difficult.”
Inspector Andrews said that one family lives in both sides of the duplex.
The Ontario Fire Marshals Office has been called in to investigate.
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
