Investigators continue to probe the circumstances of a major fire in Hanover that destroyed two downtown buildings.
The Hanover Police Service says it will be continuing the fire investigation in partnership with the Hanover Fire Department and the Office of the Fire Marshall over the next several days.
Police say 10th Street between 9th and 10th Avenues in downtown Hanover will likely remain closed for the weekend, as investigators search the debris for evidence.
“This area is considered closed to motorists and pedestrian traffic,” police say in a release. “Storefronts in the immediate area are requested to inform their customers to enter their businesses only through back entrances off the alleyways.”
The former Forum Hotel rooming house and Fabulous Fashions clothing store — at 315 and 309 10th Street — were destroyed in a major blaze that broke out just prior to 2:30 a.m. Thursday morning.
Hanover Police say the two buildings will be demolished for safety reasons.
All known residents of the buildings have been located and are accounted for, police say, but some pets perished in the blaze.
The cause of the fire has yet to be determined.
Another neighbouring business, sporting goods store Johnny K Sports continues to be assessed for a better understanding of the damage it sustained.
Nearly 70 people were displaced by the fire and Hanover Police say they continue to engage those residents to meet their primary and urgent needs.
“Our first responder teams would like to thank our community for their ongoing support,” police say in a statement. “Many local businesses and individuals have volunteered and offered their time, food and refreshments to support those in need and our first responders who are actively working the scene.”
Hanover Police are putting out a call to anyone who has video of the fire, particularly if it was taken from midnight to 3 a.m. Thursday morning. Anyone with information to assist the investigation is asked to call Hanover Police at 519-364-4280 ext 101.
