Winnipeg, MB – At 1:45 p.m. on Wednesday, September 29, the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service responded to reports of a fire in a vacant bungalow in the 500 block of Stella Avenue.
When crews arrived on-scene, they encountered a well-involved fire with heavy, dark, turbulent smoke coming from the building. Due to safety concerns, they launched a defensive attack while also protecting neighbouring homes, declaring the fire under control at 3:19 p.m. Crews are expected to be on scene for an extended period of time addressing hot spots.
One firefighter was assessed on scene by paramedics and released. No other injuries have been reported. Crews evacuated residents of a neighbouring apartment block as a precaution. It is expected those residents will be able to return to their homes once crews complete their work on scene.
Traffic is closed on McGregor Street between Flora Avenue and Dufferin Avenue. Other local traffic closures are in effect. Residents are advised to avoid the area.
The building has sustained significant structural damage and is expected to be a total loss. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. No damage estimates are available at this time.