A woman living at 99 McNaughton Avenue West in Chatham says she is fed up and scared after dealing with constant drug activity and multiple fires at the affordable housing complex.
Helena Lane, 73, told CK News Today that another fire and disturbance in the apartment unit above hers woke her up at approximately 2:30 a.m. on Wednesday.
The municipal housing complex is the site of two arsons. One took place in August 2024, displacing approximately 100 residents for several months, and the other happened in January, displacing multiple residents for a few days.
According to Lane, the fire on Wednesday was not in the same units that were involved in the previous blazes.
Lane said waking up to the smoke alarm and ensuing noise is a "lousy way to wake-up" and she wants to move to a safer building.
"Fed up and scared. I called [municipal] housing this morning, and I asked if I could be moved some place else because this is happening too many times," she said.
Lane said she has a low income and fears waiting on a social housing list for years.
"But see, I'm not that young, I'm 73. So, it's hard on my heart and everything. I told them that if they keep doing this, it will kill me," she said.
An argument broke out in the lobby during Lane's interview with CK News Today while she was returning to her apartment from the laundry room. An emotional Lane believes the fires are all drug-related, and she can't take it anymore.
"It's not a happy place here, I can tell you that, and that's why I want to move. This is crazy here (muffled screaming heard in the background). There, you have an answer of what this place is like. It's no good for a senior," Lane said through sobs.
Chatham-Kent Fire and Rescue told CK News Today the small fire early Wednesday morning, caused by a candle, was out when crews arrived.
Chatham-Kent police told CK News Today that officers have responded to a number of calls for service at 99 McNaughton Avenue for mental health concerns, well-being checks, suspicious persons, trespassing, and arson, adding they understand how unsettling these incidents can be for residents.
CK police want the community to know that public safety remains their top priority, adding that officers continue to respond promptly and investigate each incident as required.
CK Police Chief Kirk Earley noted the Community Mobilization Unit is actively working with tenants, municipal departments, and community partners to address immediate risks and support long-term safety improvements in the area.
The chief said CK police continuously assess police presence based on incidents, intelligence, and community impact and their approach includes proactive and targeted patrols, enforcement where necessary, and enhanced support to address social disorder and follow up on criminal investigations.
“Lasting solutions come through collaboration. Police are working closely with municipal and community partners to reduce risk, support residents, and improve overall conditions. Community input and cooperation are essential in that effort,” Chief Earley said.
The chief emphasized the importance of a coordinated approach and encouraged residents to continue reporting suspicious or criminal activity as it occurs, noting that timely information from the public plays a critical role in helping officers respond effectively and deploy resources where they are needed most.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Chatham-Kent Police Service or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1‑800‑222‑8477.
"The Chatham-Kent Police Service is committed to working alongside residents, community members and partner organizations to address the underlying issues and enhance public safety," Earley said.
