Calgary fire crews respond to tragic townhouse fire in the south west

At approximately 4:15 on the afternoon of Tuesday, October 31, 9-1-1 started receiving calls reporting a fire in a town house on Richardson Way S.W. Callers reported dark smoke and fire visible from the outside. When fire crews arrived,  they were met with a fully involved main floor with fire coming out from the front door. 

Firefighters entered the residence with a hose line and found a man inside on the floor. They quickly pulled him from the home and gave him to the waiting EMS crew. Paramedics immediately started lifesaving efforts and transported him to the closest hospital. Tragically, the man did not survive.

Fire crews then knocked the fire down and continued to put out hot spots. Neighbouring  residents were temporarily evacuated as a safety precaution. Once the carbon monoxide was completely ventilated and readings were at zero, residents were allowed back in with the exception of the townhome where the fire started. Fire crews will be on scene into the night to watch for any hotspots and to support the fire investigators.

Damage to the home of origin is extensive however fire crews' quick knockdown prevented the fire from spreading to neighbouring units.

Fire Investigators responded to the scene and started their investigation into the origin and cause of this tragic fire.  Calgary Police Arson Detectives also attended as CFD and CPS routinely work together on all fires where there is a fatality, serious injury or significant damage to property. 

Anybody who was in the area and has any photos, video or information especially prior to CFD arrival on scene, can send them to piofire@calgary.ca

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