A fire early Monday morning caused severe damage to a four-storey apartment complex in Middle Sackville, N.S., engulfing the top of the building and prompting the evacuation of numerous residents. The building on Hanwell Drive accommodated around 180 people across 64 units and is now considered a complete loss.
Thankfully, there were no injuries reported, and all residents have been safely evacuated. Shaun Verge, a tenant residing on the third floor with his family, described the chaotic scene of people alerting each other and swiftly evacuating the premises after hearing the fire alarm and seeing smoke.
The fire, which started around midnight, primarily affected one of the two buildings at Sunset View Apartments. Initial investigations suggest the fire may have originated on an exterior deck at the front of the building, spreading rapidly to balconies on multiple floors before reaching the roof.
Firefighters faced challenges due to inadequate water pressure, as the building’s location uphill from the nearest fire hydrants impacted their firefighting efforts. Despite deploying multiple trucks and firefighters, the situation required additional water sources to combat the extensive fire.
Although the apartment complex was equipped with sprinklers, there are concerns that certain areas such as balconies and roof cavities may not have been adequately covered, potentially contributing to the fire’s intensity. Efforts to rescue pets trapped in the building were ongoing.
Residents who were evacuated from the damaged building have not been allowed to return, with uncertainties about when they can access their units to evaluate the extent of the damage. An evacuation center has been set up to support affected residents, with the Red Cross assisting families in need.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation as authorities continue to monitor the site for any lingering hotspots. The community has come together to offer support, with donations being accepted to aid those affected by the fire. The building owner will directly communicate updates on the status of the units to residents as soon as possible.
