Encampment fire at historic Toronto site sparks greater safety concerns

Emergency crews responded to a fire that broke out at an encampment near Fort York National Historic Site Tuesday evening. Toronto police said they received multiple reports of a fire in the area of Fort York Boulevard and Lake Shore Boulevard West at 5:40 p.m. local time.

Toronto Fire told Global News the blaze broke out at an encampment and spread to surrounding trees, according to police.

Paramedics previously told Global News they transported one patient to a local hospital with minor injuries, but later confirmed the person refused to go and were treated for their injuries at the scene.

As Global's Shallima Maharaj reports, the incident has sparked greater safety concerns as people experiencing homelessness try to combat cold weather with warm fire.