None of the authorities involved in the investigations into Thursday’s downtown Bowmanville blaze has given any further information on the person who is said to be unaccounted for.
Speculation is rife on social media as to the identity of the person, but Thursday’s statements from Clarington Municipality only said: “…one individual remains unaccounted for, but it is unclear if they were in the building at the time of the fire.”
No further information was released in an update by the municipality yesterday.
Municipal officals say that 36 residents have been displaced.
The Municipality of Clarington yesterday announced that units located at 59 to 95 King Street remain closed, and it is anticipated that the area will remain under investigation through the week of March 10.
The municipality has waived parking fees in downtown Bowmanville until March 16 to support local businesses in the area.
Alternate Housing
Residents of the affected properties continue to be accommodated by the Region of Durham’s Emergency Social Services team and Red Cross (see below).
Mental health support is also being provided to residents and John Howard Society is working with individuals to find longer-term housing options. For those looking to support displaced residents, the Region of Durham is unable to accept physical donations at this time. The Salvation Army Bowmanville is collecting monetary donations for affected residents.
Officals state that temporary fencing has been erected around affected buildings. King Street West will remain closed from Scugog Street to Temperance Street until further notice. Pedestrian access is restricted to the north sidewalk only. Businesses on the north side of King Street are permitted to open, however, customers will need to park on alternative local roads or in a municipal parking lot.
Clarington Emergency and Fire Services said they have handed the downtown Bowmanville fire scene over to the Office of the Ontario Fire Marshal to conduct their investigation.
Which businesses are now closed due to the fire?
The following businesses sustained extensive damage and will remain closed for the foreseeable future.
- Talk of the Town
- Her Beauty
- Happy Way
- Custom Picture Framing
- Oak Unlimited Sleep Gallery
- Elite Counselling & Consulting
- The Willow Branch
In addition, Paisley’s British Shoppe, Romancing the Home, and Tattoo Kid will remain closed until a structural assessment is completed and it is determined that it’s safe to re-enter, say officials.
What support is available for affected businesses?
Clarington’s Economic Development office say they have begun reaching out to affected businesses to provide support alongside the Clarington Board of Trade and Downtown Bowmanville Business Improvement Area.
The Municipality of Clarington’s Community Improvement Program state that they offer seven grant programs to support businesses and property owners during this time. Examples of these programs includes the Reconstruction Grant Program which offers a grant of $10,000. Businesses may reach out to the Invest Clarington team at ecdev@clarington.net for resources and support.
“It’s a devastating scene our community won’t soon forget. I’m amazed by the resilience of those affected by this devastating fire and in awe of how Clarington has come together in a crisis. Now the work begins to rebuild together. Our municipality will do everything possible to support those affected by this destructive fire. We have fenced off the affected areas and waived parking fees. We encourage everyone to come out and support the businesses of downtown Bowmanville. We will get through this together,” said Mayor Adrian Foster.
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