No one was hurt, but damage is extensive after fire broke out inside of a building in downtown Aylmer.
Firefighters were called to the massive blaze on the south side of Talbot Street East (Highway 3) between John and King streets late Monday night.
The buildings, which house businesses on the first floor and tenants on the upper level, were safely evacuated, Aylmer police said.
Firefighters on scene of a fire on Talbot Street East in Aylmer, March 20, 2023. Photo courtesy of Aylmer police.
Firefighters from the Aylmer Fire Department, Malahide Fire Prevention, the St. Thomas Fire Department, and Central Elgin Fire battled the stubborn fire through the night. They were able to stop the flames from spreading to attached buildings on either side of the one that had caught fire.
At one point, police urged onlookers to leave and stay away from the area due to “toxic” smoke.
The community has already begun to rally behind those displaced by the fire, offering assistance, shelter, food, and supplies.
Police anticipate Talbot will remain closed between John and Queen streets well into the day Tuesday. John Street between Sydenham Street and Chestnut Street West, which was closed to allow hoses to be run from a hydrant across the road, has since reopened, police said.
An investigation into the cause of the fire is underway.
