Canada: Fire at downtown Toronto building doused after suspected explosion

TORONTO: Firefighters have extinguished a blaze that broke out on the roof of a building in downtown Toronto following a suspected explosion on Friday evening, CBC News reported, citing local authorities.

According to CBC News, citing the Toronto Police, the incident occurred near Richmond Street West and John Street at a structure under construction where propane cylinders were present. Emergency crews were dispatched to the scene shortly after.

Witnesses reported seeing thick black smoke rising from the rooftop before firefighters arrived. Police stated they had received information indicating that objects may have been exploding, with debris potentially falling onto the street below.

Explosiones sacuden el centro de Toronto tras incendio en edificio en construcción en Richmond y John.

Tanques de propano en la azotea estallaron, generando fuertes detonaciones y cierres viales. No se reportan heridos pic.twitter.com/bKE1nXMtBV

— Global Network News (@iluminnatii) March 28, 2026

Fire officials confirmed that no injuries have been reported. The blaze was escalated to a second alarm, with crews battling the fire from a neighbouring building. Personnel remain at the site to monitor and prevent any flare-ups, as reported by CBC News.

Authorities have imposed road closures in the area, with Richmond Street West shut between Peter and Duncan streets, and John Street closed from Queen Street West to Richmond Street West, CBC News reported.

Police have also restricted pedestrian access and advised commuters to use alternate routes. Further details awaited. (ANI)