An overnight fire at a Quebec seniors residence has claimed the life of a 94 year-old woman, and police believe the blaze may be criminal in nature.

The fire broke out Sunday night at the “Oasis” residence in Terrebonne, northeast of Montreal, and local television showed scenes of residents on their balconies calling for help when firefighters showed up at about 1:30 a.m.

Forty-three residents were evacuated from the building, and officials say twelve people had to be taken to hospital suffering smoke inhalation.

Police say preliminary information suggests the fire may have been deliberately set,