Owen Sound firefighters responded to a blaze on Superior Street early this morning.
Fire Chief Phil Eagleson says in a release, they were called at about
12:30 this morning to a report of smoke in the area of 6th Street East and 9th Avenue East.
Firefighters found a two-storey building on fire. Eagleson says the structure was fully involved.
He notes, the building appeared to not be in use for several years and was one of nine vacant buildings on a commercial property formerly occupied by Barton Feeders.
The building was approximately 4,800 square feet and was a complete loss worth about $500,000. Eagleson says demolition was required to make the scene safe.
A total of 11 firefighters responded to the call, crews were able to get the fire extinguished quickly.
A firefighter sustained minor injuries during suppression efforts. The firefighter was treated at the scene and attended the hospital for follow-up. He was later released from Hospital and Eagleson says he is expected to make a full recovery.
He says a follow-up investigation revealed evidence of forced entry and unlawful occupancy in several of the buildings.
Owen Sound Fire, Building Officials and By-law Enforcement staff Crews remained on scene to assist with the ongoing investigation and ensure the buildings are made secure.
He notes, “Building Owners are responsible for maintaining their buildings and ensuring they are secure from access at all times. Regular inspections of vacant properties is crucial to ensuring unlawful entry has not occurred.”