Deadly fire at youth group home

One dead, two hurt after fire at youth group home west of Peterborough near Oakwood following a disturbance.

OAKWOOD - One person is dead and two people were injured in a fire during a disturbance Friday afternoon at a group home for teens about 58 kilometres west of Peterborough, City of Kawartha Lakes OPP said.

No names or ages of the victims were released by police on Friday.

“I am deeply saddened by the tragic fire that has taken place,” City of Kawartha Lakes Mayor Andy Latham said in a statement. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the loved ones of those involved. I’m proud, as always, of the Kawartha Lakes Fire and Paramedic Services and the OPP for their valiant efforts tonight.”

A City of Kawartha Lakes OPP crime unit criminal investigation is continuing into the circumstances of the fire, under the direction of OPP Criminal Investigation Branch Det. Insp. Dave Robinson.

According to Kawartha Lakes Fire and Rescue Platoon Chief Bill Lockwood, the blaze broke out around 4 p.m. at 725 Quaker Rd., just northwest of Oakwood in the former Mariposa Township.

Police closed Quaker Road between Eldon Road and White Rock Road for hours for the investigation and response by City of Kawartha Lakes firefighters and paramedics.

Connor Homes operates the group home.

The Ontario Fire Marshal’s Office is also investigating.

Acting Sgt. Mark Kinney stated that more information from the investigation will be released later when it becomes available.