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Kurt Browning's Forest Hill house damaged in fire
| Source: |
CTV News |
| Date: |
August 18, 2010 |
The Toronto home of former world champion figure skater Kurt Browning
may have suffered up to $1 million in damage following a three-alarm
fire.
"I've never seen flames so high. They were right up to the roof,"
neighbour Mary Murdy said Wednesday.
Eighty firefighters and 18 fire trucks were on scene during the peak
of the call in the tony Forest Hill neighbourhood, beginning around 11
a.m. They had the blaze extinguished by about 2 p.m., but firefighters
were still on scene at suppertime.
Browning had reportedly been home with his youngest son and a painter
when the fire started.
Officials have speculated that the fire began in the mansion's
garage. Reports suggest a leaf blower may be to blame, with a man
believed to be Browning perhaps trying to dry the seats of his
convertible automobile.
"We initially heard the popping of glass, and it looked like it was
coming from the car," said neighbour Miriam Swartz. "And then the
whole house was just engulfed in flames."
Toronto Fire Division Commander Bob O'Hallarn said it looked as if the
man had walked away from the vehicle for a moment and returned to find
the car in flames.
From the garage, the fire spread to the house's second and third
floors before emerging on the roof.
The cause will ultimately have to be determined by a full
investigation, added Capt. Mike Strapko.
Browning issued a statement saying that his family -- he is married to
Sonia Rodriguez, a principal dancer with the National Ballet of Canada
-- are glad no one was injured. The couple has two sons.
"We (are) all really very fortunate that we are all safe after today's
fire at our home. Thanks to everyone for your tremendous support," he
said.
"We also want to thank the firefighters and emergency workers who
arrived at the house to fight the fire. They are all amazing
professionals."
On the social messaging service Twitter, Browning wrote: "It is a day
like today you find out who your friends are. Thanks all. KB."
Browning, originally from Alberta, is a four-time World Champion and
four-time Canadian national champion.
Some worried about whether the medals and trophies that constitute
Browning's legacy of athletic achievement were damaged in the
blaze.
The family will likely have to live somewhere else for months as their
home is repaired.
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