A man died in hospital after fire broke out at an multi-unit complex in Peterborough on Monday morning.
Just before 11 a.m., crews responded to the fire at the building on Aylmer Street North near London Street.
“We were coming down Aylmer street just heading downtown and there was tons of smoke pouring out of that that window there coming across the street so we pulled over and called 911,” said witness Dylan Saunderson.
One man was taken out of the building from a fire on the second-floor and taken to Peterborough Regional Health Centre with burns and smoke inhalation. It’s been reported his bed was on fire.
“One of the roommates told me that there was a guy up in the room, his mattress was on fire,” said Saunderson. “He didn’t want to leave. But at that point the firemen were already here and they handled the rest of it.”
According to Peterborough Fire Services, the fire is believed to have been caused by careless smoking. Damage is pegged at $50,000.
“The fire extended into the walls and into the ceiling space,” said platoon leader Jeff Guest. “Some of the wiring is compromised so as a precaution. We’ll de-energize and disconnect the power until such time as it can be inspected and deemed safe.”
Roads were closed at London and McDonnell streets.
The Office of the Ontario Fire Marshal is investigating the blaze.
The man’s name hasn’t been released.