Massive Fire Engulfs Vancouver Hostel and Causes Chaos on Granville Street
Early Saturday morning, guests of two hotels on Vancouver’s Granville Street were met with a horrifying sight as a massive fire engulfed the Samesun Hostel, causing chaos and panic. More than 100 people from the Samesun Hostel and the nearby Belmont Hotel were forced to evacuate their suites as sprinklers blared and alarms echoed throughout the buildings.
The fire started when a vehicle in the back alley suddenly burst into flames, spreading rapidly to the Samesun Hostel. Gustavo, a visitor from Brazil staying at the hostel, described the scene as an inferno, with parts of the ceiling collapsing and extensive flooding. He was awakened by someone frantically knocking on his door, urging him to evacuate.
Vancouver Fire Rescue Services Assistant Chief Pierre Morin stated that there was significant fire, smoke, and water damage throughout the building, particularly on one side. Thankfully, the neighboring Belmont Hotel remained unaffected by the blaze.
During the chaos, one firefighter was injured when part of the ceiling collapsed on him. However, he has since been treated and released from the hospital. Two individuals were also hospitalized for smoke inhalation.
Forty-eight firefighters swiftly responded to the scene to extinguish the flames, and even after hours of relentless effort, some remained to tackle lingering hot spots. The fire created havoc on Granville Street, as distressed guests lined up, hoping to retrieve their belongings from their suites. Many expressed deep frustration and anxiety as they had missed their flights or had to leave urgently without essential documents such as passports and flight tickets left behind.
Crews allowed small groups of guests to re-enter the hostel around 10 a.m. to retrieve their items. However, they emerged wet from the sprinklers, their luggage completely soaked. Concerns for the safety of guests arose when the neighboring building experienced a flare up, ultimately leading to the suspension of re-entry.
Assistant Chief Morin affirmed that all sprinkler and alarm systems in the affected buildings were fully functional. Investigators will now work to determine if foul play was involved in the incident. Crews are expected to remain on site into the evening, with the area remaining cordoned off throughout the day.
This unfortunate event serves as a stark reminder of how quickly a situation can escalate and the importance of being prepared for emergencies. The safety and well-being of hotel guests and residents are paramount in such circumstances, and the fire department’s prompt response and efforts are commendable.
As the investigation continues, affected individuals are encouraged to reach out to the authorities and insurance agencies for assistance and guidance. The community comes together in support during challenging times like these, and it is crucial to provide the necessary resources and support to those affected by the fire on Granville Street.
