In a tragic event early this morning, a four-alarm fire ravaged St. Anne’s Anglican Church, a historic landmark in Toronto’s Little Portugal neighborhood. Modeled after the iconic Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, the church has been decimated by the blaze.
Timeline of the Incident
Toronto police initially alerted the public with the following details:
- Time: 7:55 am
- Location: 270 Gladstone Ave
- Situation: Reports of a fire at St. Anne’s Church, with breaking windows and heavy smoke billowing from the building.
Authorities promptly responded, closing Gladstone Ave between College and Dundas as Toronto Fire Services launched exterior firefighting operations. Despite the extensive efforts, the fire resulted in the complete destruction of the beloved church. Thankfully, there have been no reports of occupants or injuries.
Historic Significance
Built between 1907 and 1908, St. Anne’s Anglican Church was a cherished historical site. The church was designated a national historic site in 1996 and recognized under the Ontario Heritage Act by the City of Toronto in 1980. Designed by prominent Toronto architect Ford Howland, the church was constructed in the Byzantine style to serve a large and active parish.
One of the church’s most notable features was its dome and the area surrounding the altar, adorned with paintings by members of the renowned Canadian Group of Seven.
Investigation and Community Reactions
The Ontario Office of the Fire Marshal and Toronto police investigators have been notified, with a joint probe into the cause of the fire expected. Amidst the official responses, some community members have voiced suspicions of arson. Kirk Lubimov expressed his concerns on social media platform X, citing a troubling trend of church burnings and vandalism in Canada: “That’s around 100 churches burned down or vandalized in Canada now to silence by the Liberal government,” he posted.
Public Safety and Traffic Advisory
Toronto Fire Services have set up water towers and crews for ongoing exterior firefighting operations. Authorities advise the public to expect road closures and increased traffic in the area as operations continue.
A Community in Mourning
The loss of St. Anne’s Anglican Church is a significant blow to the local community and those who cherish its historical and cultural value. As investigations proceed, the community remains united in grief, hoping for answers and a path forward to hopefully rebuild this iconic landmark.