Hamilton Police continue to investigate a fire on Beach Road that killed a female occupant and two dogs. Two individuals have been arrested in relation to the fire.

Shortly before 7:20 p.m., on Monday, July 8, 2019, several 911 calls were received in relation to a fire at an upstairs apartment at 104 Beach Road, Hamilton. Emergency personnel arrived soon afterwards and firefighters located and removed a female occupant with vital signs absent. Paramedics commenced resuscitation efforts and transported the female to the Hamilton General Hospital where she succumbed to her injuries.

Initial reports indicated that the fire was suspicious in nature and one of the occupants and his female acquaintance were seen running from the building shortly before the 911 calls were received.

Investigators from the Division 20 Criminal Investigation Branch were initially involved in this matter. From their interviews with witnesses, it became apparent that the fire may have been deliberately started and the investigation was turned over to the Major Crime Unit.

The female victim has not been identified at this time and a post mortem is being conducted on Tuesday morning at the Hamilton General Hospital to determine the cause of death.

The Ontario Fire Marshal (O.F.M.) has been contacted and will be assisting with the investigation.

Investigators from the Major Crime Unit set about looking for the occupant of the apartment, and his female friend. The two of them returned to the scene around 2.15 a.m. and were arrested in relation to their involvement in this matter. They are presently being interviewed by police.

A search warrant is being applied for in the morning to allow police to process the scene with the assistance of the O.F.M.

Detectives and members of the ACTION Team will be in the area of Beach Road and Gage Avenue North this morning to canvass for witnesses and surveillance video.

Further information will be released later today.

If you have any information that you believe could assist Police with the investigation into this crime you are asked to contact Detective Michael McNaughton by calling 905-546-4123.

To provide information anonymously call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit your anonymous tips online at http://www.crimestoppershamilton.com