Manitoulin Island apartment fire under investigation

A fire at an apartment building in Gore Bay on Manitoulin Island has forced several people out of their homes.

A fire that caused ‘significant’ damage to a Manitoulin Island apartment complex last week is under investigation by Ontario Provincial Police and the Fire Marshal.

Firefighters were called to an apartment on Meredith Street in Gore Bay around 5:30 p.m. April 1, Ontario Provincial Police said in a news release Monday morning.

“All residents were safely evacuated from the building, and there were no injuries,” OPP said.

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“The fire was fully extinguished, however, the structure sustained significant damage.”

There is no word on the suspected cause of the fire.

“If anyone has any information regarding this investigation, please contact the Manitoulin OPP at 1-888-310-1122,” police said.

“Should you wish to remain anonymous, you may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or submit information online at www.ontariocrimestoppers.ca where you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2,000.”

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A photo from the scene obtained by CTVNewsNorthernOntario.ca showed one of the end units of a two story apartment building engulfed in flames.

Nine residents were displaced as a result of the fire, the town said on social media Thursday.

“Thanks to the incredible efforts of our community partners -- including Billings, Central Fire Services, the Gore Bay Fire Chief and volunteer firefighters, local businesses, residents, town staff and the Red Cross --we are pleased to share that all nine displaced residents have secured temporary housing,” it said.

“The Angel Bus kindly came to the community hall at 3:00 PM to transport many of them, while others arranged personal or family transportation. It was truly heartwarming to see our community come together to support those in need.”