It remains unclear why a flea market went up in flames near Goderich early Thursday morning.
Six fire departments and Huron County OPP responded to the scene of a barn fire in Ashfield-Colborne-Wawanosh Township at around 7 a.m. When they arrived, crews found a fully engulfed barn fire, about eight kilometres north of Goderich near Hunters Beach.
The fire was at Lakeside Flea & Farmer’s Market, a tourist attraction specializing in antiques and collectibles.
Fire departments from Goderich, Central Huron, North Huron, Brussels, Lucknow, and Kincardine assisted in battling the blaze.
“High winds and dry conditions aggravated the situation and caused a nearby field to ignite, which was quickly extinguished by fire crews,” read a statement from OPP.
The structure has been destroyed, and police are investigating. Sources report a million dollars worth of antiques and collectibles were destroyed.
In an update late Thursday afternoon, Huron OPP said they are working with the Office of the Ontario Fire Marshal and local fire departments to determine the cause. Police added that crews continue to work alongside heavy machinery to ensure the blaze is out.
No injuries have been reported. The total value of the structure and its contents is still being calculated.
OPP would like motorists to avoid the area so emergency services to access the property without delay.
Barn Fire on Market Road in Ashfield-Colborne-Wawanosh. Photo from OPP
#HuronOPP is working with the Ontario Fire Marshall's office and local fire departments to determine the cause of the fire on Market Road. Fire crews continue to work alongside heavy machinery to ensure the blaze is out. Please avoid the area. ^cs. pic.twitter.com/A8lsMtfjRM
— OPP West Region (@OPP_WR) April 13, 2023
