Winnipeg, MB – At 11:38 p.m. on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service responded to reports of a fire in a vacant, two-and-a-half storey residence in the 500 block of William Avenue.
When crews arrived at the scene, they found heavy smoke and flames coming from the structure. Firefighters launched a defensive fire attack as it was not safe to enter.
They remain on scene currently, using aerial ladders and hand lines to apply water to the fire. The WFPS drone is being used to direct crews to hotspots.
Road closures in the area will stay in place until firefighters finish their work.
As a precaution, crews evacuated neighboring homes. A Winnipeg Transit bus is providing shelter for evacuees.
No injuries have been reported.
The building is considered a complete loss, with extensive smoke, fire and water damage. It had also sustained damage from previous fires in October 2025, September 2025, and August 2025.
Once conditions allow, WFPS will assess whether emergency demolition is necessary.
The fire is under investigation.
Vacant Buildings
Anyone who sees someone actively entering a vacant building, or removing boards from windows or doors from a building, should call 911 to report the incident immediately.
If you notice boarded windows or doors that have been breached, but you do not see someone actively entering or trying to enter the building, report the incident to 311 by phone or online.