FORT FRANCES – NEWS Update – In the early hours of Saturday, January 27, 2024, a significant fire incident unfolded at a large bus storage garage along Highway 11 in the Township of Alberton. At approximately 2:20 a.m., emergency teams were dispatched to tackle the blaze.
Unified Response to Alberton Fire
The Rainy River District Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), alongside firefighters from Alberton, Fort Frances, and La Vallee, quickly responded to the emergency call. Their swift action was crucial in addressing the situation.
Details of the Incident and Response Efforts
Upon arrival, firefighters were confronted with a substantial structure fire. With combined efforts from the multiple departments, they managed to successfully extinguish the fire, preventing further escalation and potential damage to adjacent properties.
Highway 11 Briefly Closed During Firefighting Operations
For the safety of the emergency responders and the public, a portion of Highway 11 near Oakwood Road was temporarily closed. This closure ensured a secure environment for the firefighting operations and was lifted shortly after the fire was under control.
Authorities Declare Fire Non-Suspicious
Currently, the fire is deemed non-suspicious by the authorities. However, the cause of the fire and the extent of the damage are still under investigation. The site will undergo a thorough examination to ascertain the specifics of the incident.
Call for Information: Public Assistance Requested
The Rainy River District OPP is actively seeking information from the public regarding this incident. They encourage anyone with relevant information to contact them at 1-888-310-1122. Additionally, for those preferring anonymity, tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or through their secure web portal at www.cstip.ca. Informants through Crime Stoppers may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $2000 if their information leads to further developments in the investigation.