Fire extensively damaged Kenora’s Fifth Street A&W on October 16. Everyone evacuated safely, no injuries were reported, and the cause remains undetermined

Firefighters brought the October 16 blaze under control and protected surrounding properties

KENORA, ON — A structure fire extensively damaged the A&W restaurant on Fifth Street in Kenora on October 16, 2026. All occupants escaped safely, and no injuries were reported, according to the City of Kenora.

Kenora Fire & Emergency Services received the call at approximately 5:55 p.m. The on-duty crew was responding to another emergency at the time.

The on-duty captain upgraded the incident to a working fire and requested additional career and paid-per-call firefighters.

Crews arrived at approximately 6:15 p.m., finding heavy smoke and an active fire. Everyone inside had evacuated before firefighters arrived.

Firefighters initially attempted to gain access to the building before switching to a defensive attack, directing water onto the fire from outside. Crews used an aerial master stream, ground monitors and handlines.

The fire was declared under control at 8:13 p.m. Firefighters remained at the scene to extinguish hot spots and ensure the area was safe. The fire was declared out at 10:12 p.m.

The cause remains undetermined, but the fire is not considered suspicious.

“This incident demonstrated the importance of teamwork and interagency collaboration,” said Gord Howard, fire chief and director of emergency services. “I want to thank our firefighters and all responding agencies for their professionalism, dedication, and coordinated efforts throughout the response.”

The city credited the coordinated response with helping protect nearby properties and thanked the agencies that assisted.

The loss affects both the restaurant’s owners and employees, along with residents and travellers who regularly visited the business. The city also recognized A&W’s support for local events, organizations and charitable initiatives.

Although the city expressed hope for the restaurant’s eventual return, no reopening timeline was provided.

Deputy Fire Chief Dexter Hupe encouraged residents to take the opportunity to review fire safety at home.

“We encourage residents to use this incident as a reminder to check their smoke alarms, ensure they are working properly, and review their home fire escape plan with everyone in their household,” Hupe said.