Residents and officials in New Glasgow, NS, are reeling after a massive downtown fire destroyed historic buildings housing apartments and businesses.
The fire broke out around 3pm on Wednesday on Provost Street. Multiple crews from surrounding areas battled the fire overnight and an excavator was brought in to demolish the structures.
The fire eventually destroyed three adjacent buildings – displacing 14 people from their homes and significantly damaging surrounding properties.
Get daily national news
Get Canada’s daily news delivered to your inbox so you never miss the top news of the day.
In an update from the city, officials confirmed that Zelda’s Flowers, Proud Pets and Twagy Vintage were directly affected and described the businesses as “valued members of our downtown business community and wonderful downtown partners and friends.”
“This is a devastating loss for our downtown and for the families and business owners directly impacted,” Mayor Nancy Dicks said in a statement.
“In the face of such tragedy, we have also seen the best of our community. First responders, partner agencies, local businesses and residents came together in dark and difficult moments to support one another, demonstrating the strength, compassion and resilience that define New Glasgow. Our community stands together as we begin the recovery process and continue to support those affected.”
Part of Provost Street remains closed Thursday while fire crews and investigators are at the scene.
The chief of the New Glasgow Fire Department says the fire marshal will investigate what caused the fire.
More to come…
© 2026 Global News, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc.
