One person is dead after a fire at an encampment site in the city's north end early Thursday morning, officials said.
Toronto fire chief Jim Jessop said emergency crews responded to a report of a fire near Credit Union Drive in North York just after 4 a.m.
Jessop said when firefighters arrived, they encountered a "significant fire" with flames reported to be 30 to 40 feet tall. Crews had to go down into a steep embankment in the Don Valley, he said.
"Additional crews were immediately called, given the size of the fire, as well as given the number of propane tanks and other compressed gas cylinders that were exploding," Jessop said at a press conference, noting the fire was quickly put out.
Jessop said one person was found dead inside an outdoor structure at the encampment site. He did not provide additional details on the victim, but said the coroner's office will investigate the death.
Other parts of the encampment were not affected by the fire, he said. Like numerous other North American cities, first responders have been dealing with these types of situations for years, he said.
"We do our best to prepare them. They're well aware of the risks of encampment fires," he said.
Jessop said he's been in touch with Toronto's shelter and support services to help those living in the valley.
He added Toronto Fire Services has its own outreach team that connects to all encampments officials are aware of and encourages individuals to access indoor shelter and supports.
Jessop said firefighters, the provincial fire marshal and city police will investigate the cause and circumstances behind the blaze.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 3, 2025.
The Canadian Press
