Hundreds of people were forced from their homes Sunday after fire broke out in a highrise apartment building.
It was early Sunday morning when flames were spotted inside Kenwick Place, a tower in the city’s west end.
Officials believe the fire started in a third-floor parking garage.
A total of 16 people were taken to hospital for assessment. As of Monday morning, two of the 16 remained in hospital receiving care.
Some tenants spent the night with family and friends, while the rest were taken to a makeshift shelter at Lambton College.
It could be up to a week before residents are able to return to Kenwick Place, as the building’s water lines, HVAC and sewer system were all damaged in the fire.
Janet Collins is just one of hundreds of the affected residents.
"I didn't think I would get down the stairs. I thought everyone was going to die," she says.
Sarnia mayor Mike Bradley was at the scene as the day unfolded.
He says Sarnia's emergency plan helped to ensure the best possible response.
"Because what happens here with industry, we have one of the best emergency plans in the business," says Bradley.
There are a number of organizations in need of donations to help those affected. Members of the community who wish to donate can contact:
- Salvation Army at 519-344-1142 or 519-337-3011
- Humane Society at 519-344-7064 Ext. 0
- Inn of the Good Shepherd at 519-344-8861 Ext. 4238
- The Canadian Red Cross at 519-332-6381
With files from CTV Kitchener
