More than 40 people who fled a fire that gutted their Hawkesbury apartment building over the weekend are staying in hotels, unable to return to their homes. The Canadian Red Cross says it is providing registration, food, clothing, transportation, and personal services to more than 25 households. The United Counties of Prescott and Russell say the fire occurred late Saturday and early Sunday at 810 Portelance Ave. No one was seriously hurt, but the Ontario Provincial Police say the fire is considered suspicious and being investigated as an arson. It took firefighters three hours to bring the flames under control. Thirty apartment units were destroyed, and the third floor was left gutted. “Just grabbed my keys, my phone and forgot the charger and everything, but I left everything behind,” said displaced resident Mario Boulanger. “For now, it’s a waiting game for me. I’m just fortunate to have a roof to sleep.” In just a matter of seconds, fire raced through the apartment building as residents fled for their lives. “We grabbed everybody we could. Animals, put on coats quickly, the kids, I think I literally had underwear, this, and shoes on,” said Jesse Lamantia. “We’re not allowed in. We can’t retrieve anything. We’re all displaced in different hotels.” For others, saving their pets was a priority. “First thing I did was get dressed and get my dog out, and then I had to go back in to go get the key for my car to put my dog in the car so she’s ok,” said Lise Lepage. Hawkesbury’s mayor says the town is ready to help residents who have lost their homes. “Depending on the nature and the size of the disaster or the number of housing units are affected, the Red Cross can only accommodate or pay for a certain amount. After that, depending on the size, it has to be reimbursed by the social services department. So that’s an issue basically that we’ll have to address,” said Mayor Robert Lefebvre. “The Red Cross will continue to work with the United Counties of Prescott and Russell to address the evolving needs of those impacted,” the Red Cross said in a statement. Lamantia is now trying to make the best of his situation with his two toddlers as they wait to find out what comes next. “Really, right now it’s just the emergency, and we’re all safe. But none of us know if we’re going home,” Lamantia said. The OPP says there is no connection between this blaze and other recent fires in Hawkesbury.
