Home extensively damaged in overnight fire on George Street

HAMILTON, ON – July 18, 2018 – At approximately 12:23 am this morning Hamilton Fire was dispatched to a reported structure fire at 74 George Street (between Caroline St. and Hess St.) in the City’s downtown core. On arrival, the first crews reported a well involved fire at the rear of the two-storey structure with heavy smoke and flames extending from the basement area to the roof.

Initial reports suggested that there may be someone inside. Crews immediately entered the structure to initiate aggressive search and rescue operations. The search was completed on all floors with no one being found. It was later learned that the three occupants inside the building at the time of the fire had self-evacuated prior to the arrival of crews.

Given the aggressive nature of the fire and the fact this was the middle unit of a group of three adjoining units the alarm was quickly upgraded to a multiple alarm. This brought additional firefighting and support resources to the scene from across the City. Aggressive interior firefighting operations were deployed into all three adjoining units (72, 74 and 76 George St.) and the fire was brought under control within approximately 45 minutes.

Total dollar loss is not yet determined but the unit at 74 George Street has sustained extensive fire damage. The units on either side (#72 and #76) have sustained some smoke and water damage. There are no reported injuries to firefighters.  Additional crews have been dispatched to the scene for relief. Crews are expected to be remaining on scene dealing with hot spots and overhaul operations.

The Office of the Fire Marshal has been notified for assistance in determining the cause of this fire. The Red Cross is assisting the occupants with alternate accommodations.