Fatal Blaze Claims Two Lives in Ottawa High-Rise
Investigators continue probing a devastating fire that erupted on the 19th floor of a high-rise apartment building on Somerset Street West near Bank Street in Centretown, claiming two lives and injuring three others over the weekend.
The blaze broke out Saturday night. Ottawa Fire Services reports that the cause remains undetermined. Two victims perished at the scene, while two others required hospital treatment—one in critical condition. Firefighters rescued a person trapped on the balcony, and paramedics treated a fifth individual on site. Identities of the victims have not been released.
Ongoing Investigation Examines Lithium-Ion Battery
The Ontario Fire Marshal leads the inquiry, focusing on an e-bike equipped with a lithium-ion battery discovered in the unit as a potential ignition source.
Vjollca Brajshori, a nearby resident, witnessed the chaos upon returning home. “It was big, black smoke, but it was dark as well,” she recounted. “I don’t know what happened inside, but it was scary to see it.”
Housing Provider Addresses E-Bike Policies
Ottawa Community Housing confirms it maintains no restrictions on storing or charging e-scooters or e-bikes. “OCH conducts all required fire and life-safety inspections to comply with the Ontario Fire Code,” stated spokesperson Esther Njuguna. “Our focus remains on supporting those affected by this incident.”
Rising Concerns Over Lithium-Ion Battery Fires
Leanne Labbee, an Ottawa Fire Services fire prevention officer, highlights the prevalence of lithium-ion batteries in everyday devices, from vacuums to electric toothbrushes. Officials note a surge in related fires.
“It is concerning because of the increase in them and the volatility of the batteries,” Labbee explained. In 2024, 19 such fires occurred in Ottawa. Last year saw 25 incidents, with eight already recorded this year.
“One of the biggest problems with these batteries is that the fires can start so quickly and grow so fast and there’s nothing that we really have nowadays that will put it out,” Labbee added. “We just cool it until it can burn out its cells within the batteries for it to go out.”
Safety Tips to Prevent Battery Fires
Labbee urges vigilance: Watch for swelling, distortion, hissing, popping, or odd noises from batteries. “As soon as you see that, you know that there’s a problem and that you should stop using that battery. Stop charging that battery and look for an appropriate place to recycle it,” she advised.
If a fire ignites, evacuate immediately and dial 9-1-1. “The minute you see any smoke coming from it, get out.” Follow device charging instructions, and avoid charging e-bikes near exits to preserve escape routes.
Recent incidents underscore the dangers: Last month, overcharged drill batteries destroyed two homes in Richmond. In January, a dog chewing a lithium-ion heated glove sparked a house fire in Orléans.
