Two investigators from the Office of the Fire Marshal were on scene on Sunday, July 14, 2024 trying to determine the cause of a fire that destroyed a section of the former file factory in Port Hope.
Port Hope Fire and Emergency Services were dispatched to Cavan Street shortly before 3 am after a report of a structure fire. When they arrived on scene the southern section of the former file factory was engulfed in flames.
Because of the intensity of the fire and the deterioration of the building firefighters fought a defensive attack from the outside.
At daybreak only a shell remained of the building while a few hot spots were still burning.
Given there was no electricity at the abandoned building the fire was deemed suspicious.
Fire Chief Jason Williams said it’s believed the fire may have started at the south end of the building and spread quickly throughout the rest of the building.
Port Hope Police canvassed the immediate area to see if anyone spotted anything suspicious or possibly may have had security video.
Heavy machinery was brought in on Sunday to meticulously tear apart the building.
Williams said although there have been no reports of anyone missing they have to make sure that no one was in the building at the time of the fire.
Cavan Street was closed in the area of the fire and will remain closed on Monday as the investigation continues.
Breaking News – Video – Major Fire at Former File Factory in Port Hope