A major fire burning in Old Montreal has left two people dead and one person in critical condition, according to Radio-Canada.
Montreal police have opened an investigation into the fire, which started around 2 a.m. in a three-storey building at the corner of Notre-Dame and Bonsecours streets.
Police say the fire may be suspicious in nature.
Jonathan Michaud of the Montreal fire department said the fire broke out on the main floor where a restaurant is located. He said the fire spread quickly.
The fire department has sent about 125 firefighters and 50 trucks to the scene.
Municipal tax records show the owner of the building is Émile-Haim Benamor, who also owned the building on Place D’Youville in Old Montreal where seven people died in March 2023. The restaurant located on the main floor of the building is owned by another person.
About 125 firefighters and 50 trucks were on the scene, near the corner of Notre-Dame and Bonsecours streets. Dozens were forced out of their homes next door and at least one person was transported to hospital.
Property records show that in 2021, Benamor requested a $10,000 permit to build a “20-room hotel” in the building.
A hostel called Le 402 is located on the second and third floors of the building. Photos of the hostel on booking websites show exposed brick walls, a shared lounge and rooms with a city view.
Some comments, however, describe the accommodations as crammed and rundown. Multiple reviewers also report bedrooms without windows or windows that are unable to open.
CBC reached out to Benamor’s lawyer who refused to comment.
Urgences-santé said one man was taken to hospital with burns. Police later said the person was in critical condition. Two other people were treated for shock on the scene.
Approximately 40 people from an adjacent building were forced out and are being supported by the Red Cross.
