More than 50 Wilfrid Laurier University students impacted by fire at residence

The exterior of Wilfrid Laurier University's Bricker Residence in Waterloo is seen on Jan. 29, 2025.

Dozens of Wilfrid Laurier University students were displaced Tuesday by a fire at one of the school’s residences.

Emergency crews said it happened in one of the units at the Bricker Residence on Bricker Ave.

Firefighters fought the blaze for approximately five hours, wrapping up around 9 p.m.

They said no one was hurt and have not yet determined what started the fire.

Officials said the damage was estimated at approximately $500,000.

In an email to CTV News on Wednesday, university representatives confirmed all the students were safely evacuated from the building, but 55 of them were impacted by the fire. They said 10 residents were given alternative accommodation at other Laurier’s residences, while others made their own alternate arrangements.

They said students will move back into their rooms in a phased approach, with some students returning to their units on Wednesday, while the rest are scheduled to return Thursday or Friday. The students who were living in the unit where the fire started have been offered alternative accommodations for the rest of the semester.

Any students who needs to file an insurance claim can get help from the school as insurance coverage is included in the fees they pay to the school.

“Laurier would like to thank Waterloo Fire and Rescue and first responders for their dedication to protecting our community,” a statement from the school said.