A community pop-up will mark the 10-year anniversary of the Hickory Drive explosion, offering space to remember, reflect and connect.
Emergency and public safety | June 23, 2026
June 28 marks 10 years since the Hickory Drive home explosion in Mississauga which happened in 2016, in Ward 3. The City of Mississauga is recognizing the anniversary with the community to honour those affected, thank first responders and staff and reflect on how neighbours supported one another during a difficult time.
This commemoration is a time to pause and remember what happened, while recognizing the strength shown by residents in the days, weeks and years that followed. It also acknowledges the many agencies and community partners that worked together to provide information, support and a path toward recovery.
The blast caused significant damage in the surrounding area and displaced residents in the Dixie Road and Rathburn Road East neighbourhood. Two people who lived in the home were killed, and others were injured. The Office of the Fire Marshal determined the explosion was caused by natural gas inside the home after a gas supply line connected to a water heater was intentionally disconnected.
The incident initially affected nearly 800 houses, condos and apartments in the Dixie Road and Rathburn Road East neighbourhood. Thirty-seven homes near or adjacent to the site were placed under building-code orders, and four homes were later demolished.
In the hours and days after the explosion, the City and its partners worked to support affected residents. A reception centre and community information supports were set up at Burnhamthorpe Community Centre so 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.
The City’s 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 co-ordinated response helped protect lives, support recovery and keep the community connected through ongoing information and on-the-ground support services.
Safe City Mississauga invites residents and community members to visit a community pop-up at the park across from Hickory Drive. The pop-up will offer space to reflect, information about available supports and an opportunity to share messages of community care. Peel Regional Police, Peel Regional Paramedics, Mississauga Fire and Emergency Services and Enforcement and Security Services will be onsite.
Hickory Drive Community pop-up
Sunday, June 28, 2026
11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Hickory Green Park
4252 Hickory Dr.
Mississauga, ON
Local residents, first responders, emergency services, community groups and community members.
Free
Learn more about the City’s Hickory Drive response. For more information about fire safety and fire safety plans, visit mississauga.ca/fire. To learn how to prepare for an emergency or disaster, including building an emergency kit and planning for children, pets, older adults and people with disabilities, visit mississauga.ca/emergencymanagement.
“Ten years later, we remember what happened on Hickory Drive, and I want to thank the first responders, City staff who were there from the beginning, our community partners who helped with the response and the neighbours who opened their doors and hearts to support those who were displaced. Mississauga 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.” – Mississauga Mayor Carolyn Parrish
“This neighbourhood has 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. We are grateful to our first responders for their quick response and to the community members who reached out to support their neighbours in need. Ten years later, we still stand with everyone who was affected, and we continue to make space for healing and support in our community.” – Ward 3 Councillor Chris Fonseca
“The Hickory Drive incident in 2016 stands out for the profound effect it had on both the neighbourhood and the wider Mississauga community. Today, I am proud to witness how our teams and partner agencies consistently collaborate to safeguard residents and offer support whenever it’s needed. Events like this continue to shape our approach, ensuring we respond swiftly, communicate effectively and remain prepared to assist our community whenever called upon.” – Fire Chief Stephane Malo
City of Mississauga Media Relations
media@mississauga.ca
905-615-3200, ext. 5232
TTY: 905-896-5151
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