An empty commercial building in downtown Hamilton has partially collapsed after a fire broke out in space on Saturday morning.
At around 6 a.m., workers were notified of a fire in the four-story Century building at 206 King Street West.
Meanwhile, Cunliffe said a fire broke out in a condo balcony near 20 George Street and is believed to have been caused by a fire in the building.
“The firefighters were very quick to respond and we brought the fire under control with minimal damage to the balcony.”
There are no reports of injuries to civilians or firefighters.
A nearby resident, who identified himself as Marwan, lives across the building and said he woke up to the smell of smoke.
“I went to my balcony, I looked to the left and there was a huge fire in this building. I saw police and ambulances everywhere and it was a really big building so I don’t know how it happened. Because of the smoke I Couldn’t see anything. It was horrible,” he said.
Cunliffe said it was unknown where and what caused the fire in the building.
“At this point, this fire is still sitting deep. We will be on the scene for the better part of the day, if not into the evening. And we have continued structural collapse,” Cunliffe said.
The crew said smoke from the fire went east and across the mountain.
Residents are being advised to keep their windows closed.
The Fire Marshal’s office is aware of the fire but it is unknown whether they will investigate.
As of Saturday afternoon, employees said most of the fire had been brought under control, but they remained at the scene to work out hot spots and clear debris.
The road is expected to remain closed in the area for the rest of the day.
