18 injured in suspected arson at Mississauga apartment building

At least 18 people were injured and hospitalized Monday morning following a fire at 920 Inverhouse Apartments in Mississauga, the second blaze at the building in less than 24 hours.

Emergency services received a 911 call around 3 a.m. The fire was found on the third floor and extinguished quickly, but heavy smoke made evacuation difficult for residents. About 16 people were rescued from third and fourth-floor balconies. Two of the injured are in serious but non-life-threatening condition. One firefighter and one police officer were among those hospitalized.

The first fire occurred the night before, also on the third floor near a stairwell. Police say the two fires may be connected and could be arson. Acting Sgt. Amanda Steenson of Peel police said: "We are aware of the previous incident that took place at the same location and we are looking at the possibility that the two incidents are connected."

The Ontario fire marshal has been called to investigate. Police will review CCTV footage as part of their investigation. Most residents were permitted to return home Monday afternoon, though residents in one area of the building remain displaced; the specific location and number of displaced residents have not been specified.