Ottawa police launch arson investigation into massive Bells Corners fire in April

A building under construction caught fire on Thorncliff Place in Bells Corners. April 1, 2025. (Photo courtesy of Michael Rode)

The Ottawa Police Service says an arson investigation is underway into a massive blaze in April that destroyed a five-storey building in Bells Corners.

The building at the corner of Northside Road and Thorncliff Place was still under construction when it went up in flames the morning of April 1. It took nearly 10 hours for firefighters to get the fire under control.

No injuries were reported.

In a news release Monday, Ottawa police said arson investigators are looking for witnesses who might have seen suspicious activity near the property.

“The Ottawa Police Arson Unit is now requesting anyone with dashcam or surveillance footage of suspicious activity in the Northside Road, Thorncliff Place, and Robertson Road area to come forward,” police say.

The developer, Rohit Homes, described the building as a five-storey, 51-unit purpose-built rental complex.

“We remain committed to supporting all authorities in their active investigations. We are thankful for their quick response on the day of the event and the efforts they continue to put into their work,” Rohit Homes said in a statement to CTV News Ottawa on Monday. “At this time, we are unaware of the origin or cause of the fire and trust that we will learn more as the investigations continue.”

Several nearby buildings were damaged by the heat and the flames.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Arson Unit at 613-236-1222, extension 2202 or by email at [e-mail].