Firefighters unharmed after roof collapses during River Road blaze

Ottawa firefighters battle a fire on River Road in Ottawa. Feb. 6, 2025. (Ottawa Fire Services)

Three Ottawa firefighters are unharmed after the roof of a home collapsed on top of them while they were fighting a fire in south Ottawa.

Fire crews were called to a home on River Road near Limebank Road at 2:49 p.m. on reports of smoke and flames coming from the roof. The caller also banged on the door, telling the homeowner to get out.

There was only one person in the home, who was able to escape safely with the family pets. No injuries have been reported.

The blaze is believed to have started in the attic before spreading through the walls. The cause of the fire is still unknown.

The area has no hydrants, so a water tanker was used to bring water to the scene to fight the fire.

While battling the fire, the roof fell in. The three firefighters inside were all able to get out from under the debris, get outside, and return to fighting the fire after being assessed by paramedics.

As of 9 p.m., a time for the fire being brought under control was not available.

Ottawa police closed a stretch of River Road from Limebank Road to Balmoral Drive while crews were on scene.