Two Fatalities in Montreal’s Historic Building Fire: Investigation Underway

An extensive fire of suspected criminal origin erupted in the early hours of Friday in a historic building in Old Montreal, claiming the lives of two individuals, according to local sources. The fire has also resulted in significant injuries to two others, with one individual reported in critical condition.

The blaze occurred in a three-story structure located at the intersection of Notre-Dame and Bonsecours streets. The building, owned by Emile Benamor, included a ground-floor restaurant and an upper-level hostel offering short-term rentals. It was previously known to have irregularities, leading to calls from families for its removal from short-term rental platforms like Airbnb, as it violated city regulations.

Authorities responded promptly, with over 150 firefighters mobilized to combat the flames that reportedly ignited around 2:39 a.m. The Montreal Police Department (SPVM) has taken charge of the investigation, treating the incident as a major arson case, with their major crimes section collaborating closely with the criminal fire module.

Inspector David Shane of the SPVM indicated in a press briefing that it is expected there will be fatalities, though the number and identities are not yet confirmed. A victim assistance center has been established, and a hotline is available for families concerned about missing relatives, reachable at 514-280-1294.

Local eyewitness accounts describe a scene of chaos as residents and visitors, including German tourist Thomas Sawer, were forced to evacuate rapidly. Sawer recounts a dramatic scene with an explosion and subsequent fire prompting immediate flight as smoke filled the building.

The property, managed by Tariq Hasan, has been previously flagged for non-compliance with safety regulations. The city of Montreal’s historical building registry lists Benamor as the owner, who also owns another building in the area that was destroyed by a fatal fire last year.

The Service de sécurité incendie de Montréal (SIM) declared a general alarm to manage the blaze, which was still not under control by late morning. The intense fire caused a part of the structure to collapse, complicating efforts to determine the exact number of casualties.

Power outages and street blockages have impacted the surrounding area, with Montreal’s Mayor Valérie Plante confirming the involvement of police due to the suspicious nature of the fire.

Rescue and recovery operations continue as investigators comb through the debris to determine the fire’s cause and any potential criminal involvement. The situation remains dynamic as authorities urge public cooperation to aid in the investigation.