fatality

Provincial Police and the District of Rainy River Services Board now confirm that a resident of Rose Manor in Fort Frances has died in Tuesday morning’s fire.

Provincial Police identify the victim as a 92-year-old.

The District of Rainy River Services Board, which owns the senior’s apartment complex, also confirms the person was a tenant of the building.

The victim was found inside the building by members of the Fort Frances Fire Rescue Service and pronounced dead at the scene.

The person’s name and gender have not been released.

The Services Board is extending its condolences to the tenant’s family and says, out of respect, no other personal information will be released.

The cause of the fire has not been revealed.

OPP, Fort Frances Fire and the Ontario Fire Marshall’s office continue to investigate, with OPP’s Crime Unit also involved.

Other tenants who were evacuated have found alternative accommodations with family and friends.

Some are being housed in local hotels.

The District of Rainy River Services Board says it is uncertain when they will be able to return.

“On behalf of the Board, I extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and neighbours of the tenant we have lost,” states Deb Ewald, Chair of the Services Board, in a release.

“Our thoughts are also with the Rose Manor residents and everyone affected by this tragic event. We are grateful to all those who have assisted in the response and in supporting residents during this difficult time.”

The Service Board notes that staff and crisis-support workers continue to provide direct support to the tenants.