Hamilton auto shop destroyed in $2M fire

Fire crews are still putting out hotspots after a massive inferno in the north end of Hamilton last night. Smoke and flames could been seen from all across the city.

The complex on Princess St housed approximately 8 industrial units, including a couple of body shops and a mechanic’s shop. All of them have been completely destroyed. Damages is estimated at $2 million.

It took 20 crews and 100 firefighters to battle the blaze.

Platoon chief Ross Brydges: “This was a very large fire and technically difficult to fight, we couldn’t get trucks in the rear so we basically had three sides to fight the fire.”

The flames were so hot they melted part of Bridges’ truck. Two firefighters received minor injuries. They were treated on scene and went back to fight the flames. No one else was hurt.

The explosions could be seen for miles.

Fire safety officer Dave Christopher: “We are dealing with flammable liquids, paints and auto body materials that could be toxic. As a precaution we evacuated the surrounding area.”

“I didn’t hear an explosion but I stepped outside and the whole building was engulfed in flames.”

Residents near the fire were evacuated for about five hours.

When the sun came up the full extent of the damage was revealed. The building destroyed, with a number of vehicles in the rubble.

Hamilton Collision and Auto was one of the companies destroyed. Owner Saber Al-Taher spent years building his business.

“I’m working so hard I didn’t even have a chance to visit my mom in seven years, I try to keep the business going and build a life.”

Now it’s gone, and so are the cars being worked on in these shops.

Cristian Baciu’s Mercedes went “This morning I got a call saying we have a little problem. I think you’re not going to get your car today.”

“We get here and there’s fire trucks and we are told the car blew up and went through the roof.”

There’s no word yet on a cause. The Ontario Fire Marshal’s office is investigating.