Major fire in Chateauguay apartment building

A major fire broke out in Chateauguay – forcing multiple families from their apartments on Thursday.

The building houses 36 affordable units on Saint-Hubert street.

“Access to the area is closed to ensure everyone’s safety and to allow emergency services to carry out their work as efficiently as possible,” said the city in a statement on their website.

Initial reports are that the blaze was accidental and a BBQ may be at the route of the cause.

All residents were safely evacuated, as were those from the 25-unit building next door.

“Fortunately, no injuries have been reported to date,” added the city.

“Residents of the 36 social housing units in the affected building have been relocated to the Manoir D’Youville, and are being cared for by the Red Cross and SOLIDES.”

Courtesy: Facebook/Ville de Châteauguay

According to the fire department, although the situation is under control, there are still some three to four hours of work to be done before the fire is completely extinguished. The premises will then be barricaded to secure the perimeter.

“Residents of 37 rue St-Hubert (neighbouring building) will be able to return to their homes this evening.”

When possible, victims of the main building will be able to recover their personal belongings. Further information will be provided at a later date the city said on it’s website.

Six fire departments were on hand to assist: Longueuil, La Prairie, Valleyfield, Mercier, Beauharnois and Des Grandes-Seigneuries.

In 2019 – the neighbouring building – also affordable housing – caught fire and was destroyed. It has yet to be rebuilt.