Officials have confirmed one person is dead after a fire ripped through a seniors apartment complex in Colborne Friday.
In an update from Northumberland OPP issued on the morning of Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026, police said their investigation into a residential fire that resulted in the death of one individual is continuing.
As previously reported yesterday, officials said all but one individual had been accounted for. However, at press deadline, the deceased had not been identified.
The fire sparked on Friday, Jan. 30 just after 4 a.m. and quickly became a fully involved inferno, engulfing the 20-unit Maple Court apartment at 8 King St. W. A large contingent of firefighters battled the stubborn blaze and remained on scene into the night tackling hotspots.
“As a result of a search of the multi-occupancy dwelling, one person has been located deceased,” OPP confirmed on Saturday.
“The scene is still being held for the investigation, which is being assisted by the Northumberland OPP crime unit, forensic identification services, the Ontario Fire Marshal and the Office of the Chief Coroner,” said OPP, on Saturday, adding that further updates will be provided as information becomes available.
As previously reported, Northumberland County social services has vowed to help the 20 or so displaced tenants as a result of the blaze, which completely ravaged the building. The unit was a Northumberland County Housing Corporation apartment, which states online that it offered rent-geared-to-income housing for seniors ages 50-plus.
Northumberland County officials also confirmed last night that several tenants had been moved to temporary emergency hotel accommodations, and said work will continue on longer-term housing help. Some displaced residents are reportedly also staying with family.
Red Cross and additional partners were also called in yesterday. The Keeler Centre was initially set up as a temporary evacuation centre, but has now been deactivated.
More than 30 firefighters tackled the blaze yesterday, while also battling the extreme cold, ice buildup and three water main breaks. Brighton, Trent Hills and Alnwick/Haldimand crews also answered the call to help Cramahe.
The OFM was on scene yesterday as well. Earlier, Township of Cramahe fire Chief Matt Halmasy told MBC the fire alarms were working in the building and that the scene would require significant overhaul and the building was anticipated to be a total loss.
Three firefighters were sent to hospital yesterday, as well as one tenant. No life-threatening injuries were reported.
Police are encouraging anyone impacted by the fire and looking to access support services to also consider Peterborough Northumberland Victim Services, which is accessible at 1-888-822-7729.
As previously reported, Lakefront Utilities said the water main breaks in the area were resolved late last night.
(Written by: Sarah Hyatt)
