Arson Investigation Underway Following Major Fire That Forced Jacques Cartier Bridge Closure
Montreal police arson investigators have launched a formal examination into a significant four-alarm fire that occurred on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, forcing the complete shutdown of the Jacques Cartier Bridge. The blaze, which broke out at the site of the former Barsalou Soap factory on de Lorimier Avenue and Logan Street, created substantial disruptions for morning commuters and required extensive emergency response efforts.
Fire Response and Investigation Details
According to Montreal police spokesperson Caroline Chèvrefils, firefighters concluded their intervention at the fire scene around 1 a.m. on Thursday morning. The investigation will involve a thorough examination of the site and review of local surveillance camera footage to determine the origin and cause of the fire. This marks a critical step in understanding what led to the significant infrastructure disruption that affected thousands of motorists during peak commuting hours.
Ongoing Traffic Impacts and Infrastructure Repairs
While the Jacques Cartier Bridge has been fully reopened to traffic, several important closures remain in effect. The de Lorimier Avenue exit from the southbound lanes continues to be closed until further notice, along with the bridge's multi-purpose path and sidewalk. Montreal's public works teams are currently assessing and repairing infrastructure damage sustained during the fire, which may require additional time to complete fully.
Community Impact and Historical Context
The fire represents a significant disruption to Montreal's transportation network, particularly given the Jacques Cartier Bridge's importance as a major artery connecting the city with the South Shore. The incident highlights the vulnerability of critical infrastructure to unexpected events and the cascading effects such disruptions can have on urban mobility. The former Barsalou Soap factory site, where the fire originated, adds historical context to the investigation, as the area has undergone various transformations over the years.
As the investigation progresses, authorities will continue to provide updates on both the cause of the fire and the timeline for complete restoration of all affected infrastructure components. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of emergency preparedness and infrastructure resilience in major urban centers like Montreal.
