A massive fire engulfed a construction site in Vancouver yesterday, resulting in the dramatic collapse of a construction crane and extensive damage to surrounding structures around 6:30 PM.
The blaze originated in a six-storey apartment building under construction on West 41st Avenue. Flames quickly spread to six other nearby buildings, destroying one and threatening the others. Fire crews from Burnaby and Richmond joined Vancouver’s team in a concerted effort to control the inferno.
Witnesses reported hearing explosions as the fire escalated, causing significant concern among residents. Dramatic footage of the crane collapsing, shared widely on social media, highlighted the severity of the situation. Despite the potential for disaster, there were no reported injuries from the crane collapse itself. Some firefighters sustained minor injuries, but the exact number is yet to be confirmed.
Firefighters battled the blaze throughout the night, managing to contain it before it could cause more widespread destruction. The collaborative effort prevented the fire from spreading beyond the initial seven buildings involved.
This morning, the Dunbar neighborhood awoke to a scene of charred debris and a substantial police presence. Roads in the vicinity remain closed as investigations continue, creating significant disruption for residents and local traffic. Public transit routes are also affected, with drivers and commuters seeking information on when normal service will resume.
As the investigation progresses, updates will be provided on the cause of the fire and the extent of the damage. Authorities are urging residents to stay clear of the area while cleanup and investigative work continues.