Skip to content

Investigators sifting through debris to determine cause of fatal fire in Innisfil

The victim's identity has not been determined; 'We can’t confirm anything until forensics steps in and next-of-kin is notified,' says fire official
2021-02-17 Innisfil
Flames and smoke billow from an Innisfil home Wednesday morning.

Human remains were removed today following Wednesday morning's fatal house fire in Innisfil. 

The investigation to determine what happened is ongoing. 

“It’s all still up in the air,” said Innisfil Fire Prevention Officer Mike Symes. 

Firefighters battled flames at the 2nd Line home, near Dempsey Street, at around 9 a.m., on Feb. 17.

Later in the day, crews confirmed a body had been found inside. However, due to challenges getting past the cold, wet and destroyed debris, investigators were only able to locate and remove the remains today.

“Whether it’s the homeowner or not, we can’t confirm anything until forensics steps in and next-of-kin is notified,” said Symes.

Due to a body being found in the debris, Symes said the Innisfil fire department must step back and take on a supporting role for the investigators from the Office of the Fire Marshal (OFM) and South Simcoe police.

The cause of the fire is yet to be determined and South Simcoe police forensic identification unit was still on the scene today investigating.  

“The police must rule out foul play still,” Symes said.

The identity of the deceased has yet to be determined, but local residents say a man lived alone inside the home.

In an interview with reporters on Wednesday, Innisfil Fire Chief Jim Kay said it's possible the home may need to come down due to the heavy damage caused by the large fire and smoke.

Up to 30 firefighters were on scene battling the fire yesterday morning and continued to monitor the house overnight for flare-ups and hot spots.



Jackie Kozak

About the Author: Jackie Kozak

Jackie Kozak is a reporter/writer whose work appears on both BradfordToday and InnisfilToday
Read more