it was heard \u2014 and felt \u2014 for miles around<\/a>. It damaged a few dozen homes in the immediate neighbourhood and prompted the evacuation of some 700 additional residences farther away.<\/p>\nDebris everywhere, many windows smashed<\/p>\n
Debris was scattered everywhere in the residential community that summer afternoon, much of it having struck and broken numerous windows of nearby apartment buildings.<\/p>\n
A number of people were injured as a result of the blast, but the only two fatalities were the couple inside the home.<\/p>\n
Ten years later, the City of Mississauga hosted a community pop-up event this past Sunday in the east-end neighbourhood to mark the anniversary and honour those impacted by the massive explosion as well as the many first responders who rushed to the scene to help.<\/p>\n
Sunday\u2019s gathering also offered people \u201cspace to remember, reflect and connect,\u201d the city said in a news release, adding many neighbours a decade ago stepped up and \u201csupported one another during a difficult time.\u201d<\/p>\n
Mississauga officials also noted this past weekend the \u201ccommemoration is a time to pause and remember what happened, while recognizing the strength shown by residents in the days, weeks and years that followed.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt also acknowledges the many agencies and community partners that worked together to provide information, support and a path toward recovery,\u201d they continued. \u201cThe blast caused significant damage in the surrounding area and displaced residents in the Dixie Road and Rathburn Road East neighbourhood.\u201d<\/p>\n
Nearly 800 houses, condos and apartments impacted<\/p>\n
The city said the explosion initially affected, in some way, nearly 800 houses, condos and apartments in the neighbourhood, adding \u201c37 homes near or adjacent to the site were placed under building-code orders and four homes were later demolished.\u201d<\/p>\n
Mississauga Fire Chief Stephane Malo said this week the Hickory Drive incident 10 years ago \u201cstands out for the profound effect it had on both the neighbourhood\u201d and the broader Mississauga community.<\/p>\n
\u201cToday, I am proud to witness how our teams and partner agencies consistently collaborate to safeguard residents and offer support whenever it\u2019s needed,\u201d he said. \u201cEvents like this continue to shape our approach, ensuring we respond swiftly, communicate effectively and remain prepared to assist our community whenever called upon.\u201d<\/p>\n
The city noted that in the hours and days after the explosion, it worked with various partners to support affected residents.<\/p>\n
A reception centre and community information supports were set up at Burnhamthorpe Community Centre \u201cso people could register, receive updates and connect with help, including emergency accommodation referrals, social services and organizations such as the Canadian Red Cross, Salvation Army and Insurance Bureau of Canada.\u201d<\/p>\n
Coordinated response \u201chelped protect lives\u201d<\/p>\n
Continuing, officials said \u201cthe city\u2019s response mattered because residents needed clear, timely information and practical help right away. Many people were displaced, and the neighbourhood faced safety risks and uncertainty. A coordinated response helped protect lives, support recovery and keep the community connected through ongoing information and on-the-ground support services.\u201d<\/p>\n
Mississauga Ward 3 Coun. Chris Fonseca, who still represents that part of the city, said the east-end neighbourhood \u201chas carried a great deal over the past decade. This commemoration is about remembering, supporting one another and recognizing the many residents who helped their neighbours during a difficult time.\u201d<\/p>\n
She added the city\u2019s first responders at the time deserve much credit \u201cfor their quick response\u201d and members of the community \u201cwho reached out to support their neighbours in need\u201d are also to be remembered.<\/p>\n
\u201cTen years later, we still stand with everyone who was affected and we continue to make space for healing and support in our community,\u201d Fonseca said.<\/p>\n
Mayor Carolyn Parrish expressed similar sentiments, adding \u201cMississauga is a caring city. This day is about remembering, standing together and making sure we are ready to support people when they need us most.\u201d<\/p>\n
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