Hamilton house fire kills four, including two children

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Tragedy struck in Hamilton when four people were killed in a house fire on the mountain Thursday night.

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Among the victims were two children.

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Authorities say just after 11 p.m., the Hamilton Fire Department responded to an ongoing three-alarm fire at 14 Derby St., Rymal Rd. E. and Upper Gage Ave. The dispatcher had received several calls about the fire.

When they arrived, the townhouse was on fire with heavy smoke and fire visible from the front and back of the unit. As the fire improved, fire units and resources from across the city were dispatched to the scene.

Firefighters learned that people were trapped on the upper floors of the house. According to reports, an “aggressive search and rescue operation” has been launched.

But firefighters encountered thick smoke and intense heat as they tried to get the victims out.

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Firefighters said two adults and two children were discovered on the second floor of the townhouse. Rescue measures by firefighters and paramedics were taken at the scene.

The victims were then taken to hospital and all four later died of their injuries. Two other adults were also taken to hospital in stable condition.

Staff were able to quickly contain the fire and bring it under control. The house suffered « extensive damage ».

At this time, the cause of the fire is unknown. Officials said the Ontario Fire Marshal will investigate.

Residents of adjacent units were evacuated and have since been allowed to return home.

bhunter@postmedia.com