Toronto firefighters are engaged in a protracted and complex battle against a stubborn blaze that has been smoldering within the walls of two highrise apartment buildings in the Thorncliffe Park area for days, leaving hundreds of residents unable to return home.
A Fire Like a Smoldering Cigar
At a press update on Monday, December 1, 2025, Toronto Fire Chief Jim Jessop illustrated the challenge by holding up a sample of combustible particle board, the material fueling the persistent fire. The blaze is trapped between the walls of the buildings located at 11 Thorncliffe Park Drive and 21 Overlea Boulevard.
"We can't access it," Jessop stated, explaining the immense difficulty crews face. He likened the situation to "a cigar that is slowly burning. It's just creeping up and up and up." He emphasized that access to the fire's core is "next to impossible" even for his department's top specialists, who have been on-site around the clock since the fire began on Thursday, November 27, 2025.
Mass Evacuation and Ongoing Support
The fire and resulting dangerous spike in carbon monoxide levels prompted the full evacuation of both towers. Close to 400 residential units, representing hundreds of people, were forced to leave their homes.
A coordinated effort involving the Canadian Red Cross and city officials has provided temporary shelter for the displaced residents. Support includes:
- 117 hotel rooms for temporary housing.
- Provision of food and basic hygiene supplies.
- Assistance with transportation in some cases.
Mayor Olivia Chow, who visited the scene on Saturday, expressed her solidarity with the affected families. "My heart goes out to all of the residents that had to leave their homes... We are here for you. You are not alone," she told media.
No Timeline for Return as Investigation Continues
Chief Jessop confirmed there is no immediate timeline for when residents might be allowed back into their apartments. Officials have called this one of the most complex firefighting operations in recent memory.
A multi-agency team, including engineers from Toronto Fire, the Toronto Building Department, and the buildings' owners, is actively working to determine a solution to extinguish the hidden fire and make the structures safe.
Meanwhile, the investigation into the fire's origin continues. Preliminary reports suggest it may have been sparked by an electrical issue. Chief Jessop acknowledged the hardship faced by the evacuees, especially during the holiday season. "I can't imagine what it would be like to be dislocated and removed from your home in the middle of the night... It is tough," he said.