ABOVE: Christina Stevens reports on the crippling fire that took place in downtown Whitby
TORONTO – A “stubborn” fire has forced the heart of downtown Whitby to shut down Friday morning.
Crews were called to a licensed establishment at 121 Brock St. South, near the corner of Brock St. and Dundas St., after reports of a fire that broke out in the building’s basement. The deputy chief of the Whitby Fire Department said they tried to go inside the building but deemed it too dangerous and had to pull back.
“Crews arrived and they were met with smoke, fire and intense heat,” said Mariano Perini, deputy fire chief for the Whitby Fire Department. “It has been a challenge because (the units) are adjacent so we are always cognisant of fire spread and exposure.”
Firefighters were still battling the blaze on Friday afternoon after flames spread to neighbouring businesses and apartments above. Heavy smoke also billowed onto the street, and combined with the morning fog, to make visibility quite difficult. Perini said 50 firefighters have been at the scene of the fire at any given time since it started.
Officers from Durham Regional Police were forced to close off the immediate area to traffic. Many of the neighbouring businesses were closed for the Good Friday holiday and won’t be affected. However, fire officials say some part of the scene could remain closed on Saturday.
The smoke was so thick police officers were seen wearing ventilator masks; a Global News camera was forced to remain two blocks away. However, no injuries have been reported at this time.
Damage is estimated to be approximately $1 million. The fire is not currently believed to be suspicious but officials say an investigation will take place when they are able to enter the building.
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