One dead, four injured in Chatham multiplex blaze: fire officials

One person was killed and four taken to hospital after fire ripped through a Chatham multiplex Tuesday night, fire officials say.

Firefighters were called to a structure fire at 24 St George St. at 9:25 pm, with crews responding from stations 1 and 2, Chatham-Kent Fire and Emergency Services said in a release Wednesday.

“Four people were transported to hospital by Chatham-Kent EMS, and one person was pronounced deceased on scene,” the release said. “Victim services were also on scene to assist those who were affected by the fire.”

Two ladder trucks, a pumper truck and a command truck attended the call, the release said.

Chatham-Kent fire and police remained at the scene, which had been cordoned off, Wednesday afternoon. The Ontario Fire Marshal’s office, which probes all deadly fires, is investigating, the release said.

There was no immediate word on the conditions of the injured. No names have been released.

No damage estimate was immediately available. Investigators are in the early stages of trying to determine the cause of the fire, the release said..

Though the multi-level structure was still standing, and most of the exterior remained intact, extensive damage could be seen at the back of the property Wednesday.

Nearby residents should expect a visit from fire officials Thursday, the release said, as crews go door-to-door.

“Crews will be returning to the area. . . to conduct an after-the-fire reassurance campaign, to speak to neighbors about fire safety and check alarms,” Assistant Chief Adam Walters said in the release.

“Our thoughts are with the families and the entire community following this loss.”

No further details will be released at this time, officials said.

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