Cause of Toronto Island landmark blaze could take ‘months’ to uncover

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It could take “months” to determine what caused the blaze that destroyed the Ward’s Island Association Clubhouse and Island Cafe, said a senior Toronto Fire spokesperson.

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On Monday, Toronto Fire investigators were using heavy equipment to go over the scene “quadrant by quadrant” and sifting through debris for any artifacts to determine the fire’s origin and cause, according to Toronto Fire deputy chief Larry Cocco.

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“Depending on the investigation, it could take weeks or even months as we have to take samples and send them away to the lab,” Cocco told reporters at the scene on Monday afternoon.

“Unfortunately, we don’t do an investigation in 30 minutes and have it completed. It takes time. We have to gather all the data, interview witnessess, assess the information and do the analysis.”

Cocco said a video camera pointing at the area of the blaze “has already been canvassed and obtained” and that will be part of the investigation, as will if the building’s power and gas was on at the time of the fire, given it was the off-season.

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Cocco said from his “preliminary analysis,” there was no evidence of an explosion and he anticipated “most likely the investigation will carry into (Tuesday).

“First of all, (investigators are) looking at fire patterns to determine where did this fire occur and once they’ve done (that), then they look at ignition sources,” Cocco said. “A full total loss fire presents challenges. However, the team is trained to look at fire patterns and look at ignition sources. It makes it more difficult, but it’s not impossible. It’s definitely a tragedy, the total loss, destruction of this facility, and it means a lot to the community on the island here.”

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Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow, who visited with residents on Sunday with Toronto Fire Chief Matthew Pegg, wrote: “Islanders are resilient. The Ward’s Island clubhouse and cafe were the heart of the community and a meeting point for visitors — and they will be again.”

The clubhouse was built in 1938 and used to host events such as weddings, anniversaries and birthday parties and the cafe has operated out of the clubhouse since 2010.

Zorah Freeman-McIntyre, the co-owner and chef of the Island Cafe, encouraged people on Instagram “to keep sharing your memories, it’s inspiration for tomorrow.”

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“Devastating,” responded @Doahmalloy. “The Island Cafe is cherished by many. Please share any volunteer opportunities to help rebuild.”

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“Hang in there Zorah and fam,” wrote @carey_west. “The community is waiting to see how we can all help!”

“Incredibly heartbreaking,” added @shawnnadowning. “The memories of the entire structure. The community events and safe spaces. To the rebuilding with an incredible and vast community behind you.”

“It’s such an immense loss, but I’m so glad to hear you’re looking to the future. Long live the Island Cafe!” added @rebsro.

“Devastating news. If a rebuild happens, I offer my skills and time. This is just heartbreaking,” wrote @heatherluckhart.

“Sending love and know the next version will be rise again, even better,” added @ispykld.

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