Fire causes nearly $500K in damage, deemed suspicious

A photo of an Owen Sound fire truck in this undated file photo ( SUPPLIED)

A Saturday afternoon triplex fire in Owen Sound is under investigation after being deemed suspicious in nature.

According to Owen Sound Fire and Emergency Services, crews responded to a call for smoke coming from the 4th Avenue East triplex at around 12:30 p.m. on Saturday.

Upon arrival at the scene, fire officials say crews found a working fire on the first floor extending into the second floor, and that on scene command upgraded to a third alarm.

Fire officials say a total of 18 Owen Sound firefighters fought the fire, making a transitional attack to contain the fire and preserve the structure of the residential building.

The fire has been deemed suspicious by investigators and has caused an estimated $500,000 in damage. No injuries were reported in the incident.

Owen Sound Police and Owen Sound Fire are continuing the investigation.

Residents are reminded by fire officials to ensure they have working smoke alarms and to keep exits clear of obstructions.