Based on coverage from CBC and CityNews Toronto.
A tragic house fire in Brampton, Ontario, has claimed the lives of five people, including three women, a toddler, and a newborn baby. The blaze, which erupted early Thursday morning, has left the community in mourning and raised questions about the safety and occupancy of the home involved.
Investigation into Brampton House Fire
Peel Regional Police and the Office of the Fire Marshal continue to investigate the cause of the fire. Constable Tyler Bell confirmed that no evidence of criminal activity has been found so far. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities focusing on managing victims and witnesses. The home, located on Banas Way, was completely demolished by crews as they sifted through the wreckage to locate missing individuals.
The fire initially left three people unaccounted for. Over the weekend, the remains of two individuals were discovered, while the third person, a man, was found safe in a hospital with his family. He was out of town on business during the fire, which led to a delay in confirming his whereabouts.
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Safety Concerns and Community Impact
The fire has highlighted concerns about housing safety and compliance with local bylaws. Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown has criticized the home's owner as an "absentee landlord" with a history of compliance issues. The home was not licensed to house multiple tenants, and the city had previously issued an order to comply due to unapproved construction of a basement unit.
Mayor Brown expressed frustration over landlords who bypass local regulations, noting that such practices can lead to dangerous living conditions. He emphasized the need for stricter enforcement to prevent future tragedies.
Survivors and Community Response
Four individuals remain hospitalized, with their conditions stabilized. Among them is a five-year-old boy who is reportedly doing well. The community has been deeply affected by the tragedy, with residents expressing shock and sadness. Neighbours like Neharika Sethbhalla have found it difficult to explain the incident to their children, who pass by the scene on their way to school.
Fire Marshal Jon Pegg has urged Ontarians to ensure their smoke alarms are functional and to practice fire escape plans, underscoring the importance of fire safety in preventing such devastating events.
As the investigation continues, the Brampton community grapples with the loss and seeks answers to prevent similar incidents in the future.
