Montreal fire crews responded to two separate fires at a homeless encampment in the Hochelaga neighborhood within the span of an hour on Tuesday, May 5, 2026. The first blaze was reported near the intersection of Notre-Dame and Davidson streets, with firefighters arriving to find flames engulfing makeshift shelters. Crews worked quickly to extinguish the fire, but within an hour, a second fire broke out at the same encampment, prompting another emergency response.
According to officials, no injuries were reported in either incident, though the fires caused significant damage to the encampment structures. The cause of the fires is under investigation, with authorities considering whether they were accidental or deliberately set. The Montreal Fire Department has urged caution in the area as temperatures rise and dry conditions increase fire risk.
The encampment has been a focal point for local advocacy groups, who have called for more permanent housing solutions for the homeless population in Montreal. City officials have not yet commented on the incidents but are expected to address the situation in the coming days.
