Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and the Office of the Fire Marshal are investigating a fire Tuesday at a seniors’ apartment building in Fort Frances, Ont., that left a 92-year-old resident dead.
Rose Manor, which is owned and operated by the District of Rainy River Services Board, consists of 35 rent-geared-to-income units for people 60 and older.
Police, fire and paramedic services responded to the fire on Sixth Street East shortly after 5:20 a.m. CT, Fort Frances OPP said Wednesday.
“Following reports of an individual still inside, firefighters entered the building and located a 92-year-old individual who was pronounced deceased at the scene. All other residents were safely evacuated from the building,” said a Fort Frances OPP news release.
It said Fort Frances OPP’s Crime Unit is investigating in collaboration with the fire marshal and the Office of the Chief Coroner.
Roughly 7,500 people live in Fort Frances, a northwestern Ontario border town located directly across the Rainy River from the city of International Falls, Minn.
In a Wednesday statement, the District of Rainy River Services Board confirmed the tenant’s death.
“On behalf of the board, I extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends and neighbours of the tenant we have lost,” said board chair Deb Ewald, who is also mayor of the town of Rainy River.
“Our thoughts are also with the Rose Manor residents and everyone affected by this tragic event. We are grateful to all those who have assisted in the response and in supporting residents during this difficult time.”
All other tenants have been provided with temporary accommodations, the board said, and staff and crisis support workers “continue to work directly with tenants to address immediate needs and provide support.”
“Access to the property remains restricted while investigation and safety assessment activities continue,” the board added.
Fort Frances Fire and Rescue Services said crews remained at the scene for several hours, adding the department won’t be releasing any further information for now.
“We thank the Ontario Provincial Police, Rainy River District Paramedic Services, Fort Frances Power Corp, local gas utility personnel, the Canadian Red Cross, Victim Services, District of Rainy River Services Board staff, and all other agencies and personnel who assisted with the emergency response and continue to support affected residents,” the fire service said in a statement on Tuesday.
