A major fire devastates a residence in Saint-Georges

A residence was completely razed by a violent fire in the downtown Saint-Georges area. The flames also spread to two other buildings located nearby.

Saint-Georges firefighters received a call around 4:50 p.m. regarding this fire in a residence located on 120^e Street, at the corner of 8^e Avenue.

Upon receiving the call, we were able to see large flames from several locations throughout the city. When firefighters arrived, 100% of the building was engulfed in flames.explains the head of the Saint-Georges Fire Safety Service, Frédéric Morin.

Firefighters were unable to say if the residence was inhabited or if anyone was inside.

Two other buildings affected

The proximity of the residence to other buildings significantly increased the risk of spread. The fire spread to the roof of a factory of the Tapis Venture company, located just opposite, a century-old building which could have quickly caught fire.

We were lucky, our teams did an excellent job. The fire on the roof was quickly detectedrelate Frédéric Morin.

The blaze also reached a storage building located at the rear of the residence.

The flames were put down by 35 firefighters who were dispatched to the scene. The situation was declared under control around 5:40 p.m. Nothing remains of the buildingsays the head of the Saint-Georges Fire Safety Department.

An explosion could have caused the fire, but this possibility has not yet been confirmed, he said.

The investigation should be transferred to the Sûreté du Québec.