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Damage tops $1 million in blaze that left 35 people homeless

Sept. 27, 2013, Ottawa – Ottawa fire officials say an early-morning blaze that tore through a group of row houses caused more than $1 million worth of damage.

About 35 people have been displaced from their homes after flames broke out at the 14-unit row house (on Lees Avenue) at about 2 a.m. Friday.

Crews eventually managed to bring the flames under control but fire officials say eight of the units were badly damaged in the fire.

The other six units had minor smoke and water damage and officials say those residents will not be able to go home for at least a couple of days.

None of the residents were injured but one firefighter was sent to hospital with a minor lower body injury.

Fire crews remained on the scene most of Friday, extinguishing hot spots.

Ottawa fire officials say exact cause of the fire is still under investigation but it is believed to have started in a car port under the main floor and spread up the exterior wall and into the attic.

The Ontario Fire Marshal's office is leading the investigation.