Tragic Ottawa Townhouse Fire Claims Lives of Two Dogs, Displaces Family
A devastating morning fire in an Ottawa townhouse has resulted in the heartbreaking loss of two family pets and forced a resident and two children from their home. The incident occurred on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at a residence on Draper Avenue near Greenbank Road.
Neighbor's Alert and Fire Department Response
The emergency began when a vigilant neighbor observed smoke emanating from the end-unit townhouse shortly before 9 a.m. Ottawa Fire Services received the call at approximately 8:51 a.m. and immediately dispatched crews to the scene.
Upon arrival, firefighters encountered challenging conditions with significant smoke throughout the structure. Crews quickly advanced a hose line into the home and identified the primary fire location in the kitchen area.
Search and Rescue Efforts
While primary crews worked to contain the blaze, secondary teams conducted a thorough search of the residence to ensure no human occupants remained inside. During this critical search operation, firefighters discovered two large dogs, each weighing approximately 100 pounds, unresponsive within the home.
Immediate lifesaving measures were initiated by firefighters outside the structure, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and oxygen administration. Despite these extensive efforts, both animals tragically succumbed to their injuries, according to Ottawa Fire Services.
Fire Containment and Aftermath
The fire was officially declared under control at 9:27 a.m., approximately 36 minutes after the initial response. Fire crews utilized ventilation fans to clear residual smoke from the structure and opened portions of kitchen walls to confirm no hidden fire extension remained.
One adult and two children were displaced as a direct result of the fire, with victim assistance services dispatched to provide support to the affected family members. The emotional impact of losing their canine companions adds another layer of tragedy to their displacement.
Investigation and Community Impact
An Ottawa Fire Services investigator was dispatched to the scene to determine the exact cause and origin of the fire. The investigation will examine all potential factors that contributed to this residential blaze.
This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the rapid devastation fires can cause within residential communities. The loss of the two dogs highlights the particular vulnerability of pets during household emergencies, even when human occupants manage to escape unharmed.
The Ottawa community now rallies around the displaced family as they face the dual challenges of finding temporary housing and coping with the emotional loss of their beloved pets.
