CAPREOL, Ontario – A massive explosion at a building in Capreol, Ontario injured three volunteer firefighters on Jan. 24, as seen in drone footage captured by local resident Nick Lavoie. The video shows the firefighters attempting to extinguish the blaze when the building suddenly explodes, causing sections of the front exterior to collapse near them.
Following the explosion, one firefighter has been discharged from the hospital while two others remain hospitalized for observation, according to a City of Greater Sudbury spokesperson. The three firefighters, who received non-life-threatening injuries, were taken to the hospital in stable condition.
The explosion occurred as firefighters were blasting water through the front door of the building, leading to a smoke explosion that knocked the firefighters to the ground. This phenomenon, similar to a backdraft but not as well understood, prompted the Ontario Fire Marshal’s Office and Greater Sudbury Police Services to launch an investigation to determine the cause of the fire.
Residents of the affected buildings were fortunately accounted for and uninjured, although one four-plex apartment unit was completely destroyed by the fire. The neighboring apartment building also suffered fire damage and structural damage, displacing the residents as a temporary precaution.
Furthermore, the fire forced the city to reroute Gova route No. 105, impacting the local transportation system. The Ministry of Labour also became involved due to the injuries sustained by the volunteer firefighters during the incident.
As authorities continue to investigate the cause of the fire, residents are left unsure of when they will be allowed back into their homes. Despite the destruction caused by the explosion and subsequent fire, the community is grateful that there was no loss of life and that everyone was able to evacuate safely.
The incident serves as a reminder of the risks that firefighters and first responders face while carrying out their duties, highlighting the importance of their bravery and dedication in protecting the community from harm.