There was still no timeline Saturday on when residents of the 408 apartments can return to their homes
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Residents of two Thorncliffe Park highrises that had to be evacuated because of a fire last week still don’t know when they can return to their homes.
Officials say firefighters have been battling the fire that has been smouldering since Thursday and is believed to be feeding off insulation trapped between the walls of the two apartment buildings at 11 Thorncliffe Park Dr. and 21 Overlea Blvd.
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Officials have previously said the fire, which prompted all 408 units in the two highrises to be evacuated, was thought to have been sparked by an electrical issue.
Speaking at the scene Saturday, Toronto Fire Services Acting Division Commander Robert Hewson said carbon monoxide levels have come down but the fire is still burning in hard-to-reach areas within the walls and it’s unknown when it will be safe for residents to return.
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“I would describe it as a smoldering fire in a very tight, confined space,” Hewson told reporters at the scene. “And it is still burning and smoldering in there.”
“We will not have visibility on it,” he added of the stubborn blaze.
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Cause of the fire still under investigation
Officials say the cause and origin of the fire remain under investigation.
More than 100 people have been put up in nearby hotel rooms with support from the City of Toronto and the Red Cross.
Mayor Olivia Chow visited the scene Saturday and spoke to media.
“My heart goes out to all of the residents that had to leave their homes last night. We are here for you. You are not alone,” Chow said.
cdoucette@postmedia.com
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