A two‑alarm fire broke out at a city‑run shelter housed in a former hotel on Islington Avenue in Etobicoke early Thursday morning. The blaze was reported at 5:35 a.m. at 2180 Islington Avenue, a 13‑storey building that has been serving residents of the Rexdale area as a municipal shelter.
Toronto Fire Services responded promptly to the alarm and deployed resources appropriate for a two‑alarm incident. Firefighters entered the structure and worked to suppress the flames while assessing the interior for hazards. The fire was brought under control after a coordinated effort by the responding units.
During the investigation of the scene, crews discovered burned lithium‑ion batteries among the debris. The presence of these batteries has triggered a specific inquiry by the City of Toronto to determine their role in the ignition and to assess any related safety concerns. Officials have indicated that the investigation will focus on the source and condition of the batteries found at the site.
The building at 2180 Islington Avenue, originally constructed as a hotel, was repurposed by the municipality to provide temporary accommodation for individuals and families experiencing homelessness in the surrounding Rexdale community. The shelter has been operating under the management of the City of Toronto, offering essential services to its residents.
Fire officials have not released further details regarding the extent of damage to the shelter’s interior or any impact on its operations. The incident remains under review as investigators continue to examine the cause and any contributing factors related to the lithium‑ion batteries. The City of Toronto will provide updates as more information becomes available.