Suspicious Fire Claims Lives in Old Montreal Building

A major fire broke out early Friday morning in a historic building located at the intersection of Notre-Dame and Bonsecours streets in Old Montreal. The Montreal police department’s major crimes unit is currently investigating the incident, which has already claimed at least two lives.

Security footage obtained by Radio-Canada captured a hooded individual, clad in black and wearing a mask, breaking into the building through a side door shortly before the fire erupted. The Montreal police have described the circumstances of the fire as “suspicious.” Inspector David Shane of the Montreal police stated, “Some fatalities are unfortunately expected,” while investigations continue.

The building, a century-old structure, housed a restaurant on the main floor and a hostel on the upper levels. It quickly became engulfed in flames, triggering a five-alarm emergency response. About 125 firefighters and 50 trucks were dispatched to the scene to combat the fire, which continued to burn into the afternoon. Authorities have not yet confirmed the total number of occupants inside the building at the time of the incident.

The two confirmed victims, believed to be a mother and her seven-year-old daughter, were reportedly French nationals. Witnesses described chaotic scenes as people tried to evacuate; one tourist, Thomas Sawer from Germany, recounted to CBC News his harrowing escape amidst increasing smoke.

The owner of the building, Émile-Haim Benamor, is also linked to another property located on Place D’Youville that was destroyed in a similar fire in 2023, resulting in seven deaths. That fire was deemed criminal by police, although no charges have been filed.

Fire safety concerns have previously been noted in the building at the center of the latest incident. Martin Guilbault of the Montreal fire department mentioned that inspections earlier this year confirmed compliance with fire safety standards. Nevertheless, past reviews had highlighted issues such as lack of smoke alarms and limited fire escape routes.

Mayor Valerie Plante of Montreal conveyed her condolences to those affected by the tragedy via the platform X, calling news of the fire “horrible.” The Red Cross is currently assisting displaced residents from nearby buildings who were evacuated as a precaution.

The investigation continues, with police urging the public to come forward with any information or leads that could aid their efforts. A dedicated helpline has been established by the Montreal police for families concerned about loved ones potentially caught in the fire.

The arson squad is also involved, examining all potential causes and collaborators to ascertain whether the fire was deliberate.