Major Structural Fire at Former Ridgeway-Crystal Beach High School

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FORT ERIE (August 11, 2026) – While attention will understandably focus on the building, its heritage significance and the ongoing investigation, the Town of Fort Erie recognizes the exceptional efforts of Fort Erie Fire Department firefighters following a major structural fire at the former Ridgeway-Crystal Beach High School (RCBHS) on Ridge Road North.

Fort Erie firefighters from all four stations responded to the massive fire around 1 a.m. on Monday, August 10, and worked for approximately 16 hours to bring the fire under control, extinguish hot spots and protect the surrounding community.

Fort Erie's firefighters, who are nearly all volunteers, worked through the night at the scene under difficult and changing conditions. Many returned to their regular jobs that morning or used personal time to recover from the physical demands of the incident.

“This was a significant and complex fire that required a coordinated response from all four of our stations. Our crews worked under challenging conditions for many hours and displayed the highest standards of professionalism throughout the response. We also recognize the impact an incident of this magnitude has beyond the fireground. It requires sacrifices from spouses, partners, children and loved ones who support our members while they serve our community. The dedication shown by our firefighters and the support they received from their families speaks to the exceptional people we have in our fire service. I am incredibly proud of how our crews performed. We cannot thank them enough.”
– Fire Chief Mark Schmitt

“Our firefighters demonstrated exceptional professionalism, commitment and dedication throughout an extremely challenging incident. On behalf of Council and the entire community, I want to express our sincere appreciation to every firefighter who responded and worked through the night to keep our community safe. Most of these individuals are volunteers; they left the scene and returned to their regular jobs only hours later. Their extraordinary efforts are a powerful reminder of the commitment our firefighters make to Fort Erie every day. Thank you!”
– Mayor Wayne Redekop

Protecting the Historic Façade

The former RCBHS has a long history in the Ridgeway and Crystal Beach communities. Demolition work was underway at the former school property prior to the fire occurring. The original 1927 front exterior, or west façade, of RCBHS is designated under the Ontario Heritage Act for its cultural heritage value and architectural and historical significance. The façade was intended to be preserved and incorporated into the future redevelopment of the property.

Great care was taken to preserve the front façade wherever possible while ensuring the fire was fully extinguished and that fire crews could operate from safe positions. Given the compromised condition and deterioration of the structure, safety remained the primary consideration driving all decisions.

Ongoing Investigation

The Niagara Regional Police Service (NRPS) has determined that the fire was an act of arson. The NRPS 5 District Criminal Investigative Branch worked in cooperation with the Fort Erie Fire Department to investigate the site.

The full NRPS media release is available here: Abandoned School Fire Being Investigated as Arson – Fort Erie.

Residents and businesses in the area are being asked to review surveillance footage and contact police if they observed anything suspicious. Anyone with information is asked to contact NRPS at 905-688-4111, option 3, extension 1009538.

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