A Casa da Madeira, one of the oldest Portuguese community institutions in Toronto, suffered significant damage following a criminal act that led to a violent explosion at its premises on 1621 DuPont Street on the early hours of Wednesday, the association announced on social media.
The director of Casa da Madeira, Décio Gonçalves, stated that the incident “left the community in shock” and described it as “a miracle there were no further casualties.”
“This was a deliberate attack that could have cost lives. Casa da Madeira is a symbol of the Portuguese presence in Toronto and a center for culture and gathering. Witnessing this devastation is heartbreaking for all of us,” he lamented.
According to information shared on social media by the “Canadian Madeira Club,” an individual entered the premises with the apparent intent to set the building on fire using an accelerant.
The act resulted in an explosion that severely injured the suspect himself, who was engulfed in flames at the scene.
The suspect allegedly left behind several personal items that could be crucial for their identification.
Police and firefighting crews were swiftly mobilized and are currently investigating the circumstances of the incident.
“The response from emergency teams was rapid and exemplary. Thanks to that, an even greater tragedy was averted,” emphasized Gonçalves, adding that the Casa da Madeira’s management is “fully cooperating with the authorities.”
The director highlighted the support received since the incident:
“We have received messages of solidarity from across the Luso-Canadian community, from other associations, and even political representatives. This unity gives us strength to rebuild and continue our mission.”
Casa da Madeira, founded over half a century ago, is considered a historical and cultural landmark for the Madeiran diaspora in Canada, hosting cultural, social, and charitable events.
Décio Gonçalves assured that despite the damages, “Casa da Madeira will rise again with the same spirit and determination that have always characterized the Portuguese community.”
