Homes lost as fire engulfs apartment building on Nelson Street

Goderich Fire Department responded to the Nelson Street fire on August 1 with such efficiency that the fire did not spread to surrounding buildings, and everyone was evacuated safely. The Office of the Fire Marshal has been contacted but the cause of the fire is yet to be determined.

Tragedy struck Goderich late in the night on August 1 as flames engulfed an apartment building on Nelson Street, prompting a swift emergency response and the evacuation of nearby homes.

According to emergency services, the fire broke out around 11:20 p.m., and by the time responders arrived on site, the building was fully engulfed in flames.

Goderich Fire responded quickly, and in an efficient manner to avoid injuries or death, and to contain the fire from spreading to other structures.

Jeff Wormington, Fire Chief of Goderich Fire Department explains that upon arrival, fire fighters were met with heavy fire and smoke exiting a second-floor unit.

Wormington added that firefighters made entry to suppress the fire, which had extended into the third-floor unit including the ceiling and roof.

“Flames were visible through the roof of the 18-unit apartment building,” said Chief Wormington.

Firefighters encountered high heat and smoke conditions on the second floor, when entry was made to the third-floor unit, and the ceiling fell in on the firefighters.

A full evacuation was called for safety of the suppression crews in the building.

“Due to the design of the building, the fire spread quickly through the entire roof structure of the building,” explained Wormington.

In response to the fire, crews from six neighbouring fire departments responded to assist in battling the blaze.

Wormington commented that firefighters worked well into Saturday morning suppressing hot spots, and a total of 10 hours was spent on site.

“It was a long, hot duration for all emergency personnel involved and I commend them on their hard work and dedication,” said Wormington.

Wormington explains the case of the fire has yet to be determined but arson was ruled out by investigators from the Ontario Fire Marshalls office.

Currently, the owner of the building is working with his insurance company and engineers to determine the status of the remaining building.

The third floor had to be removed due to the structural load, to allow the investigators to enter safely.

Wormington says there have been no further details as to the future of the remaining building.

The 27 tenants of the Nelson Street apartment building have lost their homes, and many personal items or keepsakes.

Some of their personal items were retrieved shortly after the fire, but due to the water load in the building, most ceilings have fallen and have made it unsafe for anyone to re-enter.

“This devastating fire is a good example as to why tenants and homeowners should invest in water and fire protected safes to keep personal documents in,” suggested Wormington.

“These can, in most cases, withstand fire and water damage and can be retrieved even long after the fire.”

Wormington explains the building’s smoke alarms were all working and assisted in notifying all tenants to escape the fire.

Since the fire, the Town of Goderich collected monetary donations and gift cards to help assist the displaced tenants and the community support remained outstanding after such a devastating fire.

In a press release the Town of Goderich expressed its sadness on the devastating fire that engulfed the residential apartment building.

“Our hearts go out to all the families and individuals impacted by this event,” the statement read on behalf of Mayor Trevor Bazinet.

“The well-being of our community members remains our top priority, and we are thankful for the quick response of our emergency services that made this possible…The resilience and support of our community are our greatest strengths, and together, we will navigate this challenging time. Thank you for your understanding and compassion as we work together to support those affected.”

When the apartment fire broke out, seven brave women – Sharon Horton, Alice Pfeifer, Jenna Pfeifer, Kelsey Hock, Jennifer McMillan, Sarah Doelman and Nicole Zyta - didn’t hesitate to run towards the flames, risking their safety to help others.

At an emotional recognition ceremony at Goderich Council, these seven women told of their bravery.

According to their remarks on their actions that night, they entered the burning building to rescue people trapped inside.

“Their actions were selfless, fearless, and nothing short of heroic,” wrote Mayor Trevor Bazinet.

“Because of their courage and quick thinking, lives were saved. We are forever grateful. You are true heroes, and our communities are better and safer because of people like you. Thank you for showing us all what bravery truly looks like.”

Despite the brave actions of these seven women who entered a burning building to assist two tenants from the second-floor balcony, Wormington commends with a cautionary note.

“This is a tough one to comment on. The number one fire safety tip we teach is to never re-enter a burning building, as this can put them in danger but can also make it difficult to figure out how many individuals are in the building,” Wormington remarked.

“But I do commend them on their quick actions and bravery.”

Following the quick response from emergency services on the night of the fire, the bravery of citizens to help evacuate tenants, and the generous support of the community, Wormington reiterates the immense importance of fire safety in homes.

“Be sure to have working smoke alarms, don’t overload electrical circuits, and never leave cooking unattended,” Wormington added.

All tenants in the building managed to escape the fire with no injuries.

During the fire, Nelson Street between Cambria Road North and Albert Street was closed off, and residents from surrounding homes on Brock Street and Nelson Street East were evacuated as a precaution.

A soft place to land and warming centre was quickly established at the Knights of Columbus Hall on Parsons Court, to support displaced individuals and families.

Though no injuries were reported, the emotional toll remains high. Twenty-seven residents were displaced, and the building suffered extensive damage.

Support from the community started pouring in shortly after the fire, and Victim Services (VS) Huron Perth met those impacted to assess immediate needs. Some medication needs had to be met, and VS assisted in making those connections.

Emotional support was also offered, helping tenants reach out to loved ones and family to secure longer term housing options.

According to Deborah Logue, Executive Director of Victim Services (VS) Huron Perth, people impacted by the fire have been connected to insurance and informal supports for ongoing care.

Logue explains that VS supported 12 families displaced by the fire, but not all families took up the offer for support.

“Victim Services remains in contact with people impacted by the fire to assess ongoing needs and ensure appropriate referrals are made to meet those needs,” added Logue.

For those tenants who had insurance, this will play a key role in ensuring families are housed and can replace lost items.

For those who did not have insurance, Goodwill, St. Vincent De Paul, Community Connection, Salvation Army and 211 are all connections that will support with resources.

Upon speaking with the victims of the fire, Logue recalls feelings of shock, disbelief, sadness, frustration and anger, as well as uncertainty for the future.

“The destruction of the fire was devastating when people realized they were not going to be able to return home,” said Logue.

On scene, VS also provided phone charges, dog food, and Advil to alleviate pressing concerns, and since the fire VS has been able to replace medical devices.

Once the neighbouring building was cleared as safe, VS provided transportation back.

When reflecting on any future emergencies, Logue reminds the community to be as best prepared as possible, including having insurance.

“Knowing your neighbours and having a community connection when difficult things arise makes coping a little easier,” added Logue.

“Not feeling alone and accepting supports may lessen the impact.”

As of August 18, Wormington explains that the Office of the Fire Marshal has been contacted, and the cause of the fire is yet to be determined.

Photos posted online during and after this tragic fire show charred walls, shattered windows, and the haunting aftermath of a night that changed lives in an instant.

For many, the fire is a stark reminder of how quickly stability can be lost, and how vital community support is in a time of crisis.