One person has died following a fire in a townhouse on Russell Road late Thursday night. The Ottawa police arson unit is investigating the cause of the blaze, which broke out in the 1600 block of Russell Road, near Industrial Avenue, at 10:48 p.m. on May 14.
Firefighters Respond Quickly
Ottawa Fire Services received multiple calls reporting the fire and arrived on the scene within five minutes. Upon arrival, the townhouse was fully engulfed in flames. Firefighters immediately initiated search and rescue operations while working to suppress the fire.
Four people were able to escape the flames, but one person was found dead inside the home, according to the Ottawa Police Service.
Fire Spread to Adjacent Unit
OFS Fire Chief Paul Hutt stated in a press release Friday that under heavy fire conditions, firefighters conducted search and rescue operations alongside fire suppression efforts. The fire, which originated in an end-unit residential townhouse, spread to an adjacent unit before being brought under control at 11:59 p.m. Thursday.
Ten Tenants Displaced
A total of ten tenants have been displaced by the fire and are receiving support from the Red Cross. The fire service confirmed that the blaze displaced residents from multiple units.
The origin of the fire is currently unknown. Both Ottawa police and fire services are actively investigating the incident. Hutt extended deepest condolences to the family and friends affected by the tragic event.
Ottawa Police were on the scene Friday morning as the investigation continues. Further updates are expected as the arson unit gathers more information.
