Downtown Calgary intersection reopens after large tree set on fire

A busy downtown Calgary intersection has partially reopened Tuesday after a tree was set on fire overnight.

Calgary Fire Department (CFD) confirms to CityNews crews responded to reports of a tree fire around 4 a.m. on the 12 Avenue side of Central Memorial Park.

Fire crews used water to flush the flames out, stayed on scene until 7 a.m. and secured the scene with tape and traffic barriers. The tree was next to a light pole.

A preliminary investigation indicates someone put paper in the base of the tree to start the fire, according to a city spokesperson.

The city identified the tree as a large, old poplar tree that was scheduled for maintenance due to its heritage status, even though it was near the end of its life cycle.

The tree was killed as a result of the fire and is now being removed for public safety.

In a post to social media just before 6:30 a.m., the city’s transportation department said 12 Avenue was closed between 4 Street and 2 Street SW.

The eastbound lanes of 12 Avenue SW reopened around 2:30 p.m.

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