Investigation into fatal Bridgewater, N.S., fire continues, donations to be accepted for residents

A section of a main road in Bridgewater, N.S., is expected to reopen Friday morning following a fatal fire.

The investigation into a fatal fire in Bridgewater, N.S., continues and donations for those displaced will soon be accepted.

Emergency crews responded to the scene on King Street just before noon Wednesday.

They found a massive blaze in a three-storey apartment building with multiple units.

A body was found in a basement unit that evening. It’s believed they are a person who was unaccounted for.

Investigators remained on scene Thursday before it was transferred over to property representatives.

“The investigation into the cause of the fire is still underway. At this time, the cause remains undetermined,” Bridgewater Police Service said in an update on social media.

“The NS Medical Examiners Office is actively attempting to confirm the identity of the deceased.”

Police said Thursday night King Street was still not passable due to fire debris, but it was expected to reopen to the public by 8 a.m. Friday.

Police added further updates will be shared once available.

Salvation Army accepting donations

Mayor David Mitchell says everyone who was displaced has been housed with help from family, friends and the Red Cross.

The Salvation Army has also announced it will accept donations of new or gently used items for those affected by the fire.

The organization says it will accept:

• clothing
• toiletries
• bedding
• household essentials
• gift cards

Residents can drop off and pick up items at The Salvation Army location at 116 Pleasant St. during the following dates and times:

• Saturday from 12 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• Sunday from 12 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• Monday from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

“It’s a place where they can come, they can meet with people, they can have someone to talk to and they can feel that support,” said Wendy Woodland with the Salvation Army.

Coffee, tea and a welcoming space will also be available.

“We will continue to work with community partners to assess needs and ensure donations are directed to those most impacted by the fire. Together, we can support individuals and families as they begin the recovery process,” the organization said.

Mayor on potential for paid fire department

Officials say the outcome of the fire would likely not have been different if the department was paid, not volunteer, due to how fast it spread.

“We’ll review this incident with the fire chief after things settle down and determine whether any changes are needed,” Mitchell told CTV News Atlantic’s Hafsa Arif.

The mayor added residents need to stay away from emergency scenes when police and fire officials ask them to – something that happened on Wednesday.

“Some roads were blocked by spectators, delaying access for responding fire apparatus. We need to examine stronger enforcement measures and possibly advocate for penalties when people ignore official directions to stay clear of emergency areas,” he said.

With files from CTV News Atlantic’s Hafsa Arif

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