January 21, 2025

CENTURY OLD HISTORIC ORILLIA BUSINESS CORE BUILDING DESTROYED IN MORNING FIRE TODAY

ORILLIA — A massive, raging fire took out a corner block store and building with apartments in historic downtown Orillia this morning.

The blaze at the intersection of Peter and Mississaga streets where the Mr. Comics is located, engulfed the old main street property just after 7:30 a.m.

Firefighters battled icy conditions containing flames shooting through the roof of the beautiful old white two-storey city landmark a block east of the Opera House, as plumes of billowing smoke filled surrounding streets.

**Iceicles hang off traffic light as Orillia firefighters battled the morning blaze at Peter and Mississaga streets where many buildings date back a century in the downtown. Photo City of Orillia**

City Fire Chief Chris Ferry said in a city news release: “The buildings in this area, many over 100 years old, pose unique challenges due to their age and proximity to one another.”

He added mutual aid fire support came in from Ramara, Severn, Oro-Medonte, and Rama.

No immediate cause of the fire was reported. The Ontario Fire Marshal’s office was called in to investigate.

An online drone video by Justin Mercer, of D&J Videos, shows the damage and destruction overcoming the core corner and stretching back around the block across from the old city hall and police station.

See You Tube video below.