Winnipeg, MB – At 8:34 p.m. on Tuesday, December 13, 2022, the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) responded to reports of a fire in a vacant, one-and-a-half storey, residential and commercial mixed-use building in the 800 block of Wellington Avenue.
At the scene, crews found heavy smoke coming from the structure. Crews were unable to enter the building due to safety concerns. Using an aerial ladder and hand-held hose lines, they fought the fire from the exterior of the building, while also working to protect neighbouring homes. The fire was declared under control at 5:02 a.m.
Crews evacuated neighbouring homes as a precaution. No injuries were reported.
The structure sustained significant damage from smoke, fire, and water. While no damage estimates are available, the building is a complete loss and will be demolished this morning due to the risk of collapse. While the demolition is taking place, crews will apply water to hot spots. Neighbouring homes sustained some water damage.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Wellington Avenue, between Arlington Street and Alverstone Street is expected to remain closed until demolition has been completed.