Short takes on PM’s aide, fire deaths and refused cab ride

Unknown accusations of impropriety from a person unknown lay at the doorstep of an aide to the prime minister Thursday. His office has confirmed that an investigation is under way and that Claude-Eric Gagne, the deputy director of operations, is on leave. All three members of a family caught in a fire at a Toronto Community Housing building at Allen Rd. and Flemington Rd. have now died. A boy, 16, died Wedneday following the death in hospital of his brother,18, and his mother. No cause has been released. And a woman is complaining that she was refused a ride in a taxi downtown early in the morning because the trip was only a few blocks. Good story.