On October 1, 2025, at approximately 10:00 a.m., the Huntsville/Lake of Bays Fire Department responded to a report of a structure fire on West Street South in Huntsville.
Firefighters from Station One (Huntsville), Station Three (Hillside), and Station Five (Port Sydney) responded with 40 firefighters and 11 apparatus. Also attending were the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), Muskoka EMS, Huntsville Public Works, the District of Muskoka, Enbridge Gas, Hydro One, and HLD Muskoka. Victim Services was also on scene to provide immediate assistance to displaced residents.
Upon arrival, crews were met with heavy fire conditions on the side and porch of a residence, with smoke extending throughout both levels of the home. Residents were evacuating, and firefighters assisted two individuals to safety.
Firefighters worked for more than eight hours to fully extinguish the fire. Due to the extensive fire damage and safety risks, an excavator was required to bring down structural components to ensure the fire could be safely extinguished.
A GoFundMe campaign has been organized by community member Sarah Spring.
“Jay and Wendy’s house was irreparably damaged by a fire.
“This was the family home where they raised their three children Sam, Sydnei and Iris. It was built with hard work and many hearts through the Habitat For Humanity project. The loss of the home is a heart break on many levels,” states the GoFundMe initiative.
“Many know Wendy from her deep and caring work as a Yoga instructor in Huntsville over the past 25 years. She has provided a safe space to stretch and grow for countless people in the community.
“Additionally she and Jay have graced the area for years, adding colour and vibrancy to the community with their business Muskoka Tye Dye,” it adds. “With the loss of a lot of their merchandise in the fire as well as the trauma of suddenly becoming homeless over night, Jay and Wendy are facing months of healing and loss. Let’s come together and help shoulder their load.”
Access the fundraiser here: https://gofund.me/eee38713a
Don’t miss out on Doppler!Sign up here to receive our email digest with links to our most recent stories.
Local news in your inbox six times per week!
Click here to support local news
0 Comments