A fire that destroyed a heritage building in Orillia on Tuesday was intentionally set, Ontario Provincial Police believe.
Orillia OPP officers responded to the fire on Peter Street S. near Mississaga Street E. just before 7:30 a.m. Fire crews arrived to find the building completely engulfed in flames, OPP Const. Sophie Gwin told CBC Toronto on Wednesday.
First responders evacuated people from local residences and businesses, OPP said in a news release Wednesday. No injuries have been reported.
"At this time, police believe that the fire was intentionally started, which spread causing the large-scale damages," the release said.
Officers canvassed local businesses and residents for video footage of what may have caused the fire, which has now led to a criminal investigation, OPP said.
Several community members contacted police on Tuesday with video footage showing a "suspicious person… lighting a small fire nearby," Gwin said.
"That is believed to be the fire that has led to the damage," she said.
Gwin said police haven't identified any suspects yet.
Anyone who was in Orillia's downtown core between 5 a.m. to 7 a.m. on Tuesday is asked to contact OPP. Police are also looking for video footage from that time period.
"Investigators urge that business owners check their exterior surveillance video for any suspicious persons observed during the requested timeframe," the release said.
Road closures still in effect
Crews spent over 30 hours at the scene fighting the fire, Gwin said.
The building was over 100 years old and housed several businesses and apartments, Orillia Mayor Don McIsaac said on Tuesday.
The fire broke out on the first floor of the building, before spreading to the second floor, Orillia Fire Chief Chris Ferry said on Tuesday. He said the roof and second floor of the three-storey building collapsed, which means the building is likely a total loss.
Gwin said local victim services are helping those who were displaced.
Road closures remain in effect on Peter Street between Colborne Street and Coldwater Road, as well as on Mississaga Street E. between West Street and Matchedash Street.
Police are asking vehicles and pedestrians to avoid these areas while first first responders remain on scene.