Multiple alarm fire in downtown Hamilton building

The Hamilton Fire Department is at a multiple alarm fire in an empty downtown building that is under renovation.

Emergency services were called to the fire at 21 John St. S., near Main Street East, around 11:41 a.m. Wednesday. The building is directly south of the Residences of Royal Connaught.

On arrival, firefighters found a well-involved fire" and the call was upgraded from a structure fire to a multiple alarm to bring in additional resources, said the Hamilton Fire Department. The building is under renovation.

Fire crews found the blaze had spread between the first and second floors.

There was a strong smell of smoke in the area. Hamilton police, who are assisting the fire department, are asking people to stay out of the area.

Police and fire are expected to remain in the area for several hours.

No one was hurt.

Nicole O'Reilly is a Hamilton-based reporter covering crime and justice for The Spectator. Reach her via email: noreilly@thespec.com