Damage is estimated at more than $1 million following a massive barn fire in Alnwick/Haldimand Township on Saturday, May 9, 2026.
Alnwick/Haldimand Fire Chief Dave Dawson said crews were dispatched to a reported shed fire at 892 Dudley Road at approximately 10:16 a.m.
When firefighters arrived a short time later, they discovered the blaze involved a fully engulfed steel barn measuring approximately 100 feet by 200 feet.
Mutual aid was immediately requested from the Cramahe Fire Department and Hamilton Township Fire Department for tanker support and additional manpower.
“It was a defensive attack right from the start,” said Dawson.
Smoke from the fire could be seen from as far away as Cobourg.
Dawson said there were no animals inside the barn at the time of the fire, but noted an “undisclosed activity” was taking place inside the structure.
A neighbour said the facility was used as a marijuana grow operation.
Two large propane tanks located on the east side of the property added to the danger for firefighters.
“Crews were able to keep them cool during the initial defensive attack,” Dawson said.
A backhoe was brought in to help crews access and extinguish spot fires burning beneath the collapsed metal structure.
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
