A brick wall from a residential building in Westmount partially collapsed on Tuesday afternoon, striking two parked vehicles and injuring a man inside one of them, according to Montreal police. The incident occurred shortly after 1:30 p.m. on Victoria Ave. near Sherbrooke St. W., when part of the building's exterior cladding gave way, sending bricks crashing down.
Details of the Collapse and Damage
The bricks collapsed the roof of one car and smashed its windshield and hood, causing significant damage. The man in that vehicle sustained injuries, but police confirmed they were not considered life-threatening. The other parked vehicle was also damaged by the falling bricks, though no one was inside at the time.
Emergency Response and Safety Measures
About two dozen firefighters and other emergency workers responded to the scene, inspecting the building and securing the area to prevent further hazards. Crews continued to assess the site to ensure that no additional material could fall, with the structure now appearing stable.
The cause of the collapse remains unknown, and police stated there was no indication of a criminal element. Authorities are investigating the incident to determine what led to the structural failure.
Community Impact and Ongoing Assessment
This event highlights potential safety concerns in urban areas, with emergency services working diligently to manage the aftermath. Residents in the vicinity were advised to avoid the area as crews conducted their evaluations.
