Man hospitalized in west end townhome fire

A man was sent to hospital after a townhome fire in Ottawa’s west end on Saturday afternoon.

A news release from Ottawa Fire Services says they received multiple 911 calls at approximately 4:35 p.m. regarding a fire in the 2000 block of Dumaurier Avenue, east of the Bayshore Shopping Centre.

On arrival, crews confirmed smoke was visible from a two-storey rowhouse.

Firefighters initiated a “fast attack” on the flames and additional resources were called to the scene. A hose line was also advanced inside the structure, Ottawa fire says.

Ottawa police posted to social media site X asking the public to avoid the area.

A spokesperson says officers initially responded to a “potential criminal incident” at the scene, but an investigation revealed the fire was not suspicious.

Police continued to assist firefighters with evacuations and road closures.

Ottawa paramedics say a man was taken to hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

Two full searches of the home found no occupants found inside. The fire was declared under control shortly before 4:55 p.m.

Ottawa fire says crews were able to protect nearby structures that were at risk of catching fire.

The air quality was monitored, and it was confirmed safe enough for nearby residents to return inside.

An investigation into the cause and origin of the fire is ongoing.