Firefighters and police are investigating a potential arson after fires started at two portables in the city’s south end early yesterday morning.
Ottawa firefighters had a busy night overnight Sunday after fighting two fires that caused a combined $600,000 in damages.
The fire was reported at Roberta Bondar Public School at 159 Lorry Greenberg Dr., where two portables at the rear of the school’s property were fully involved, said district chief David Thompson.
The 24 firefighters who attended brought the fire under control, but the buildings sustained about $200,000 worth of damages.
“It’s a suspicious fire,” said Thompson. “When it’s two classrooms separated by space and they’re involved at the same time, it’s suspicious.”
The fire is now under investigation by arson investigators.
One firefighter suffered a knee injury, was taken to hospital and later released.
An hour previous to the school fire, firefighters were called to a two-storey home at 1869 Des Epinettes Ave. in the city’s east end.
Forty-two firefighters attended the fire, which was fully involved upon their arrival. The fire had spread to the roof, making it impossible for entry.
The residents had exited the home by the time firefighters arrived. Damages are estimated at $450,000 and the incident is under investigation by the fire prevention bureau.
The fire is not deemed suspicious.
