Smoke is still billowing, and the smell of burning wood continues to saturate a residential New Westminster neighbourhood due to a fire that broke out at a New West apartment building early Friday afternoon.
Daily Hive learned from New Westminster Fire Rescue Services (NWFRS) Chief Erin Williams that crews responded to the blaze located on the 900 block of Fourth Avenue at around 1:30 p.m.
When crews arrived on scene, multiple units were on fire, and residents were stranded on their balconies.
As of 11 p.m. on Friday, July 10, a large response is still actively engaged in a direct attack against the blaze.
“Several residents were rescued using ground ladders while crews attacked the fire from the interior of the building and assisted residents in evacuating. NWFRS crews did a phenomenal job under extreme fire conditions,” Williams said.
Since then, the fire has been upgraded to Third Alarm, and New West crews are getting an assist from Burnaby Fire. There has also been a call out of off-duty New Westminster fire crews.
Amir Ali/Daily Hive
“There are currently eight apparatus on scene, including two aerial trucks. Two firefighters and one resident have been transported to hospital by BC Emergency Health Services,” Williams said.
As of Friday evening, while caution tape has blocked off several roads, residents have still been travelling through the area.
Amir Ali/Daily Hive
Amir Ali/Daily Hive
Fire officials do not advise getting close to a burning building due to the threat of toxic smoke inhalation and other potential dangers.
An official cause has not yet been provided.
A fundraiser has been started by someone who claims to live across the street.
“This is a very difficult and emotional day for many families. It looks like the building is lost. Along with it, a sanctuary, a home, cherished belongings, medications and necessities, memories, and lives built for the residents in 50 units,” the GoFundMe states.