On September 9, 2016, at approximately 1:35AM, 911 received a call regarding a house fire in the area of Bessey Street and Glendale Avenue in St. Catharines. St. Catharines Fire Services, Niagara Emergency Medical Services (NEMS) and the Niagara Regional Police were all dispatched to attend the scene.
Police say at approximately 1:37AM a lone Niagara Regional Police officer was first to arrive onscene. The officer found the enclosed front porch / doorway area of the house on fire. The officer fearing for the welfare of the occupants attempted to force open the front door but was driven back by smoke and fire. The officer located a garden hose nearby and attempted to fight the fire. The officer again tried to force open the front door this time gaining entry. The officer met the home owner and small child inside who were awoken by his efforts. The officer and the two occupants exited the home through a rear exit.
St. Catharines Fire Services arrived onscene moments later and extinguished the fire. Damage is estimated at approximately $5000.
The two occupants were transported to a local hospital by Niagara EMS for precautionary examinations.
The officer was also transported to a local hospital for treatment of minor smoke inhalation. He is expected to be released this morning.The officer involved is 23 year member of the Niagara Regional Police currently assigned to uniform patrol in 1 District St. Catharines. The officer’s name is not being released.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the St. Catharines Fire Services. Criminality is not suspected.
To receive similar content, “Like” us on Facebook @ https://www.facebook.com/niagarabuzz.ca
