1 dead after early-morning fire at townhouse complex in Hamilton's west end

One person has died after a fire in Hamilton's west end Monday morning, says the fire chief.

Fire crews responded to a structure fire at 1967 Main St. W., just before Filman Road, around 8:30 a.m. ET, Hamilton Fire Department Chief Dave Cunliffe said in a news release.

Firefighters reported that flames were visible from a unit at the rear of the townhouse complex as they approached the area, and they later confirmed "heavy flames" on the second floor that were lapping to the third floor of a three-storey, end townhouse unit. 

"Initial reports provided by neighbours suggested that someone was still inside," Cunliffe said. 

"During search and rescue operations a person was located on the second floor and removed to the exterior. The person was put in the care of Hamilton Paramedics."

Cunliffe said the individual was pronounced dead at the scene.

"Our thoughts and prayers go out to those impacted by this tragic event," Cunliffe said. 

Officials have not released any information about the person who died. 

Hamilton police are investigating, although so far, it doesn't appear to be a suspicious fire, said spokesperson Adam Kimber. The investigative team is called in whenever someone dies, he said. 

The fire in the townhouse unit was quickly knocked down, but not before the second floor sustained significant smoke and fire damage and the third floor sustained some smoke and fire damage, the fire department said. 

Given the nature of the fire, the Office of the Fire Marshal has been notified and is responding to assist with the investigation, Cunliffe said.

The fire department estimates damage to be around $750,000.