Edmonton apartment fire deliberately started for warmth: EFRS

Edmonton Fire Rescue Services says an apartment fire that occurred over the weekend was likely started by people trying to keep warm.

EFRS says six fire trucks initially responded to a report of a fire on Saturday around 5:30 a.m. at a complex near 80 Avenue and 106 Street.

While dealing with the blaze, an additional five units were brought in to assist.

EFRS says it is believed a fire was deliberately set for warmth in the parkade of the building and ended up getting out of control. Flames spread up the side of the building and onto the roof, crews say.

A spokesperson with the building’s management company confrimed to CityNews, 25 suites were evacuated and 30 people have been displaced with no timeline as to when they can return.

The Edmonton Police Service was also called to the scene, and has opened an investigation.

EFRS says the estimated damage is around $5 million.