Winnipeg, MB – The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) responded to two fires this afternoon.
Murray Avenue Fire
At 12:52 p.m., the WFPS responded to reports of a fire in a one-and-a-half storey house in the 1200 block of Murray Avenue.
When crews arrived on-scene, they encountered a well-involved fire. Crews launched a defensive attack, and are expected to be on-scene for an extended period of time addressing the fire.
WFPS water tankers are being used to shuttle water to the scene, as the fire is outside the City of Winnipeg water district.
Due to the extent of the fire, crews have not been able to search the building. No injuries are being reported at this time.
McPhillips Street will be periodically closed in both directions at Murray Avenue to facilitate fire operations. Motorists are advised to avoid the area.
No damage estimates are available at this time, though the house is expected to be a total loss. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Maryland Street Fire
At 2:39 p.m., the WFPS responded to reports of a fire in a two-storey duplex in the 700 block of Maryland Street.
When crews arrived at the scene, they found black smoke coming from the building. They launched an offensive attack, declaring the fire under control at 3:31 p.m.
A search of the building was completed and no occupants were found. No injuries were reported.
Crews located one cat on-scene and placed the animal in the care of a neighbour.
Maryland Street is expected to be closed to all southbound traffic from Wellington Avenue to Sargent Avenue for the remainder of the afternoon. Motorists are advised to avoid the area and take alternate routes.
The building suffered extensive fire, water and smoke damage. The cause of the fire is under investigation. Damage estimates are unavailable at this time.