In a heartbreaking tragedy that has left the community of Oshawa in mourning, Josef Bresca is grappling with the devastating loss of his wife and two daughters after a fire tore through their family home. The fire, which occurred early on the morning of March 12, 2025, has taken the lives of 46-year-old Vivian Bresca, nine-year-old Alette, and 12-year-old Sigalit, as well as their family dog.
On March 18, reports emerged from CityNews detailing the harrowing events. After surviving a coma from severe burns, 56-year-old Josef, now left to cope with unimaginable pain, was aided by his brother, Daniel Bresca, who is standing by his side. "To wake up one day and have everything you love ... everything you had gone," Daniel said, encapsulating the heartache that has engulfed the family.
On that fateful day, Josef was on the main floor of their home when he awoke to flames and smoke pouring in. His brother recounts how Josef tried to save his family, suffering burns on his left arm and back in the process. "He tried running upstairs, and that’s how he burnt his left arm and his back," Daniel recalled. Despite his best efforts, he was unable to reach Vivian and the girls.
First responders arrived soon after, but Vivian and Alette were pronounced dead shortly after arriving at the hospital. Sigalit, who was also rushed to SickKids for treatment, succumbed to her injuries five days later, on March 17. This heartbreaking sequence of events left Josef physically stable yet emotionally shattered.
Following the tragedy, a community rallying event began, with a GoFundMe page set up to help cover funeral expenses and assist Josef in rebuilding his life that was once filled with love. The fundraising goal has been set at $50,000, with over $17,000 raised by March 18, showcasing the outpouring of support from the community.
Daniel shared that Josef, who worked tirelessly while also being a devoted family man, is now left with the daunting task of coping with the aftermath. “He has nothing left, like no reason to go on ... I got to find something. We have to find a way that makes him want to go on,” said Daniel. It’s a mission driven by love, as he hopes to provide Josef with a new purpose in life.
Throughout the ordeal, Daniel has been transparent about his brother's psychological state, indicating that while Josef has physical injuries from the fire, the emotional scars run deeper. “Everything he did was for the kids,” Daniel observed, reflecting on Josef's unwavering dedication to his family as he discussed how his brother worked hard but always made time to drive his daughters to and from school.
As investigations continue into the cause of the fire, the Office of the Fire Marshal has stated that at present, no signs of foul play or arson have been identified. Although the official inquiries are ongoing, the community's support has been unwavering. Memorials have sprung up outside the destroyed home, where friends and neighbors come to pay their respects and remember Vivian and her children.
The Oshawa community is rallying to support Josef as he faces the road ahead, with heartfelt condolences pouring in from all corners. Daniel expressed a determination to provide support and care, stating, “I have to find him a why to go on.” Indeed, finding this reason is now imperative for a man who once had everything—a loving wife, two beloved daughters, and a home filled with warmth.
As the family strives to heal from this profound loss, the memory of Vivian, Alette, and Sigalit will undoubtedly linger in the hearts of those they touched. The love shared between the Bresca family was palpable, echoing through Daniel’s recollections. With every passing day, the need for a united front becomes more critical as they navigate their grief.
In closing, the tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the bonds of family. The resolve of Daniel and the surrounding community to help Josef is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit even in the darkest of times, demonstrating how love and compassion can light the way through unfathomable grief.
