Two elderly women were taken to hospital with serious injuries following a fire at an apartment building in Scarborough early Thursday morning that displaced more than a dozen tenants.
The blaze broke out shortly before 2 a.m. at a building near Victoria Park and Eglinton avenues, Toronto Fire said.
According to officials, heavy smoke was found on the ninth floor of the building and some occupants were found on their balconies.
A fire was located in the hallway on the ninth floor and smoke migrated into multiple units.
Two residents were taken to hospital and TTC buses were called in to shelter residents.
Many occupants needed assistance from Toronto Fire crews.
The two occupants who were hospitalized suffered serious, but non-life-threatening injuries.
The building was the scene of a fatal fire back in 2022.
Toronto Fire Chief Jim Jessop said Thursday’s fire could have easily resulted in multiple fatalities.
“The conditions they (fire crews) fought through to evacuate numerous individuals is nothing short of heroic,” he told reporters at the scene on Thursday.
“Their incredible work is the only reason… we do not have multiple fatalities to report."
He said the hallway on the ninth floor has been completely destroyed.
Toronto Seniors Housing Corporation (TSHC), which operates the building, said it is aware of this morning’s fire and the organization wishes the “injured individuals a full and speedy recovery.”
“The safety and well‑being of tenants and staff are our top priority. Staff are on site supporting tenants in the building and assisting with emergency services as they conduct their investigation," a statement sent to CP24 read.
“Eighteen units have been evacuated due to smoke and water damage. TSHC staff are arranging temporary accommodation for affected tenants at hotels, along with food vouchers and transportation. These tenants are sheltering in the building’s air-conditioned recreation room, and are being provided with food and water. Some tenants have opted to stay with friends and family instead.”
The statement went on to note that being displaced is “never easy,” adding that it “sincerely empathizes” with the tenants who are impacted by the fire.
“We are grateful to our dedicated staff who are doing everything in their power to support tenants, through actions big and small, at this difficult time,” the statement said.
“We are also grateful to Toronto Fire Services, Toronto Paramedic Services, and the Toronto Police Service, who responded quickly. For any questions about the investigation, please contact Toronto Fire Services.”
