A suspected arson attack on a ground-floor business sparked a fast-moving fire that ripped through a three-storey building in Montreal's east end early Monday, forcing approximately two dozen residents to flee their homes and drawing a massive emergency response.
Early Morning Blaze Spreads Rapidly
The incident occurred at around 3 a.m. on Monday, January 12, 2026, at a building located on Sherbrooke St. E. near the corner of Émile-Legrand St. in the Mercier-Hochelaga-Maisonneuve borough. Flames from the targeted business quickly spread to the upper residential floors of the mixed-use building.
Scores of firefighters were deployed to battle the blaze. One person was treated for respiratory problems during the chaotic evacuation, according to Montreal police.
Police Investigation Points to Arson
Montreal police stated that an initial investigation at the scene has determined that flammable materials were found near the origin of the fire, strongly suggesting the blaze was deliberately set.
Authorities are also following witness accounts that at least one suspect was seen leaving the area in a car once the fire had begun. The case has been handed over to the police arson squad for a full investigation.
Search for Evidence and Suspects Continues
Investigators plan to examine footage from local surveillance cameras to determine if the incident or the suspect's getaway was captured on video. As of now, no arrests have been made in connection with the fire.
The event has displaced residents and raised serious safety concerns in the neighbourhood. The investigation remains active as police work to identify and locate those responsible for the suspected arson.
