CFD Crews Respond to Fire and Explosion in the NE

At approximately 11:00 pm this evening, Calgary Fire Department (CFD) crews responded to the 0-100 block of Las Americas Villas NE for reports of a structure fire and explosion.

Upon arrival, CFD crews were faced with a significant amount of flame and smoke coming from three destroyed 2-story townhomes, with fire threatening a fourth. An explosion was reported by citizens near to the scene and debris was scattered across a large area around the incident.

Shortly after arriving, a second alarm was struck by CFD to ensure adequate resources on scene.

Crews quickly initiated an interior fire attack on residences that were exposed and threatened as well as a defensive attack on the 3 severely impacted townhomes. Residents from adjacent exposed homes self-evacuated. All four townhomes are not habitable, and residents will be displaced.

A total of six people were transported by AHS to hospital, one in life threatening condition, one in serious condition, and four patients in stable condition. One cat was rescued by firefighters at scene.

Atco and Enmax were dispatched and ensured there were no hazards relating to services.

CPS assisted with scene safety and traffic control.

Crews remain on scene currently to ensure the fire is extinguished and a fire investigator along with CPS are investigating the cause.

                                                            -30-