Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service responds to fire on Atlantic Avenue

When crews arrived on scene, heavy smoke and flames were coming from the structure. They initially launched an offensive fire attack, but as conditions worsened, they moved outside to fight the fire. Handlines and aerial ladder trucks were used to apply water to the fire. The WFPS drone was also launched to direct crews to hotspots.

Firefighters completed a search of the building and removed two occupants. Other residents evacuated before crews arrived on scene, and a neighbouring building was evacuated as a precaution. A Winnipeg Transit bus was deployed to provide shelter.

Paramedics assessed multiple patients at the scene. Two people were transported to hospital in critical condition. One person was transported in unstable condition.

The City of Winnipeg's Emergency Social Services teamwas called to help displaced residents find temporary accommodations.

Manitoba Hydro was also on scene to turn the gas and power off to some buildings as a precaution. As a result, some customers in the area were without power Saturday morning.

Crews are expected to remain on scene throughout the morning. Southbound Main Street between Inkster Boulevard and Cathedral Avenue, and Atlantic Avenue between Main Street and Charles Street, will be closed whilr crews remain on scene. Residents should exercise caution in the area.

The structure suffered significant damage from the fire. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.