A devastating fire that tore through a mixed-use apartment building in north Edmonton Monday night has claimed one life, left two residents missing, and displaced dozens after investigators say a vehicle crashed into the structure and ruptured a natural gas line.
Emergency crews responded shortly after 9:15 p.m. to the area of 82 Street and 131 Avenue, where a vehicle reportedly struck the building, triggering a gas leak, an explosion and a fast-moving fire.
Police officers arriving first at the scene began helping residents escape the burning building while firefighters battled the blaze under dangerous conditions.
Authorities said six residents were taken to hospital with injuries that are not believed to be life-threatening. The 62-year-old driver of the vehicle was also hospitalized with serious but non-life-threatening injuries and remains in stable condition.
An 85-year-old man died after jumping from a balcony in an apparent attempt to escape the fire. Emergency crews treated him at the scene, but he could not be saved.
Investigators said two residents remain unaccounted for as search efforts continue.
Officials believe at least 35 people were living in the building’s 16 residential units. The complex also housed four businesses on the ground floor. Twenty-one displaced residents are receiving assistance from the Canadian Red Cross, while police have confirmed the remaining occupants were away from the building at the time of the fire and have since been accounted for.
Edmonton Police Service Chief Warren Driechel described the incident as a tragedy that will require a lengthy and careful recovery effort due to the severe structural damage.
“This is a tragic event, and our condolences go out to the family, friends and loved ones of the gentleman who passed and those who remain unaccounted for at this time. Likewise, our thoughts are with those who have lost their homes or are now facing injuries or trauma related to this incident,” Driechel said.
He noted that the instability of the building is delaying efforts to search for those still missing.
“Due to the significant structural damage caused by the fire, it may take a considerable amount of time before emergency services can access the building to locate unaccounted for residents and pets who may have perished in the fire. At this time, we request patience as our partners at Edmonton Fire Rescue Services complete the difficult task of ensuring the location is safe and we will endeavor to commence our on scene work as soon as we can.”
Edmonton Fire Rescue Services Chief David Lazenby said firefighters faced a particularly dangerous operation because of the active gas leak and the scale of the blaze.
“This was a complex and challenging second alarm fire, compounded by the gas leak. Our thoughts are with the victims and everyone impacted by this tragedy.”
Lazenby praised firefighters and emergency personnel for their response.
“Our crews arrived on scene promptly, launching critical search, rescue and suppression operations to bring the fire under control. I would like to thank all our emergency response partners for their support. I am proud of their bravery and professionalism under such difficult conditions.”
Edmonton Mayor Andrew Knack also extended condolences to those affected, highlighting the widespread impact on residents and businesses.
“My thoughts are with everyone affected by the devastating fire. My deepest condolences go to the family, friends and loved ones of the individual who has tragically lost their life. The impact on the community has been profound with the loss of homes, and businesses.”
He also thanked first responders and City staff for their efforts.
“I would like to thank Edmonton Fire Rescue Services, Edmonton Police Services, City of Edmonton staff, including our ETS drivers for their swift and courageous response.”
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said the tragedy had resonated across the province and acknowledged both the victims and the emergency responders who rushed to help.
“Like many Albertans I am heartbroken by this tragic collision, and subsequent explosion and fire in north Edmonton. My thoughts are with the family and loved ones of the man who lost his life, those who remain unaccounted for, everyone displaced from their homes, and all those affected by this devastating incident.”
Smith also encouraged anyone struggling in the aftermath of the disaster to seek support.
“Thank you to the first responders who acted so quickly and courageously. Anyone impacted who needs support can connect with community and mental health resources by calling or texting 2-1-1.”
Police and Edmonton Fire Rescue Services continue to investigate what led to the collision and subsequent explosion. Officials say it may take considerable time before investigators can safely enter the heavily damaged structure to complete their search and determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
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