Bridgewater is mourning after a devastating fire claimed the life of a resident and destroyed two downtown buildings.
The fire broke out Wednesday morning on King Street, destroying an apartment building and a neighbouring structure while displacing multiple residents. Police confirmed Thursday that one person died in the fire after initially being reported missing during the evacuation.
Mayor David Mitchell said the tragedy has left the community grieving.
“It’s heartbreaking,” Mitchell said. “We’re thinking of the family right now. This is just heartbreaking.”
Massive response from first responders
Mitchell praised the response from firefighters and emergency personnel who came from across the region to assist.
“When I went down and rounded the corner and saw about 100 firefighters in all their gear, in the heat, it was really overwhelming to see so many communities just answer the call without hesitation,” he said.
According to information released Thursday, the fire chief arrived on scene within a minute of the initial 911 call, followed shortly by police officers and responding fire crews.
Despite the rapid response, the fire spread quickly through the older wooden structures.
Community stepping up to help
Mitchell said one of the most encouraging aspects of an otherwise tragic day was seeing people immediately offer support.
“I had countless messages, some people asking, can I bring food down, water down? Does anyone need a bed for the night? What’s needed?” he said.
He also highlighted local businesses that quickly provided food and assistance to firefighters and those impacted by the fire.
The mayor noted some of those displaced are newer members of the community and may not have extensive support networks nearby.
“These are our residents. At the end of the day, that’s who they are,” he said.
Focus shifts to recovery and answers
The Canadian Red Cross and other organizations are helping residents who lost their homes and belongings.
Mitchell said many people affected by the fire lost important documents, identification, clothing and personal possessions.
“Right now, the town’s job is making sure we take care of those who need it,” he said.
The scene has been turned over to police investigators, while the Nova Scotia Fire Marshal’s Office and Medical Examiner continue their work.
Mitchell said the community will ultimately be looking for answers about what caused the fire.
“For the community, the next step is answers,” he said. “After those investigations conclude, I think we owe it to folks to make sure they have them.”
