UPDATE:
In a media release Wednesday morning (Sept 22), Brandon police say “this morning, emergency personnel remain on scene to monitor the structure. The fire has been extinguished and an investigation into the cause of the fire will begin after Fire Inspectors are able to assess any safety concerns. The extent of the damage is significant from fire, smoke and water. Pacific Avenue remains blocked off to motorists and pedestrians. We would like to request that people continue to avoid the area if possible.
There are 48 units within the complex. Authorities are still working to determine if all the residents are accounted for. Last night, residents of neighbouring buildings were also evacuated as a precaution. No other structures were damaged.
ORIGINAL STORY:
Fire destroyed the four-storey Valley View condo building on Pacific Avenue in Brandon last night (Sept 21). Brandon police and fire officials say it’s believed everyone got out safely and no-one was hurt.
Emergency personnel were called to the complex at 1400 Pacific Avenue at around 8:46 pm and police say by 10:30 pm, the building was fully engulfed in flames. Police Information Officer Sgt. Kirby Sararas says police and firefighters were able to enter the building prior to the fire spreading to evacuate residents.
Crews were still on the scene this morning, and Sararas says it’ll take some time determining the cause because of the extensive damage. The top floors suffered fire damage, while the lower suites sustained a lot of water damage.
(Image – Valley View condo fire in Brandon – courtesy Karen Numrich)
It’s the second fire at the building in less than a week. Fire fighters doused a blaze there last Friday afternoon.
Though there’s no official number yet, last night’s fire reportedly displaced about 80 people.
Last night, Brandon police were advising evacuees to register at the Victoria Inn to find temporary housing, and also provided a number to call 204-729-2186.
Westman Immigrant Services has offered to help those affected by the fire replace documents that may have been destroyed. The Salvation Army says the best way to support the residents is by donating cash to their organization.
They say the residents’ needs are being met, and donating items like clothing and food adds to the Salvation Army’s costs.
