Accident on 24 Today: Toronto firefighters continue to respond to a fire at two highrise buildings in East York, months after a previous blaze in the same structures displaced hundreds of residents. Emergency crews were called to 11 Thorncliffe Park Drive and 21 Overlea Boulevard shortly after 11:30 a.m. Monday when insulation between the buildings caught fire for a second time.
More than 100 firefighters were deployed to contain the situation. Unlike the earlier incident in November, residents have not been evacuated and are currently sheltering in place. Toronto Fire Chief Jim Jessop confirmed that recent building upgrades helped contain the smoke within the walls, preventing it from spreading into residential units.
Fire crews remain on site as it is still unclear whether the fire has been fully extinguished. Officials emphasized that air quality is being closely monitored, with particular attention to carbon monoxide levels. At this time, authorities report no immediate risk to occupants.
The latest fire comes months after a complex and prolonged incident on Nov. 27, when a hidden fire burned between the walls for more than two weeks, forcing the evacuation of approximately 400 units. Many residents were unable to return home until early January.
Chief Jessop previously described that fire as one of the most challenging in his 30-year career due to difficulties accessing the smoldering insulation. An investigation is now underway to determine the cause of Monday’s incident. Jessop is expected to provide an update as crews continue their work.