A devastating fire erupted early Friday morning in a highrise building located at 1065 Ramsey Crescent in the west end of Ottawa, injuring a total of 16 residents. The Ottawa Paramedic Service reported that four women were taken to the hospital due to serious smoke inhalation, but thankfully, they are in stable condition.

Emergency responders received an alarming call at 4:40 a.m. from a monitoring agency, reporting that alarms were sounding within the residential structure. Upon arrival, firefighters declared a “working fire” after witnessing significant flames engulfing the building, predominantly affecting the third and fourth floors. Ottawa Fire Services chief, Paul Hutt, detailed the intensity of the situation, noting, “Heavy fire and smoke conditions were observed immediately.”

In a precautionary response to the hazardous smoke levels, residents were instructed to shelter in place or on their balconies, as several hallways were filled with smoke. Firefighters aggressively fought the blaze and successfully brought it under control just after 5 a.m. Crews also conducted a thorough search of the building to ensure no one was left inside.

While firefighting efforts were underway, some residents sought refuge in an OC Transpo bus parked nearby. The firefighting teams utilized high-pressure fans to ventilate the remaining smoke from the premises, ensuring a safer environment for all.

As authorities remain on the scene for investigation purposes, the community is left shaken by the incident. The cause of the fire is still under investigation, with fire officials working diligently to uncover the details surrounding this frightening event. Ottawa residents are advised to stay alert and report any suspicious activity. More updates will follow as the situation develops.