Fire along Macleod Trail possible case of arson, say crews
Posted Dec 6, 2021 10:45 am.
Last Updated Dec 6, 2021 11:01 am.
Investigators are looking into a possible case of arson after a major fire destroyed a restaurant in Calgary’s southwest Monday morning.
Calls began coming in to 9-1-1 just before 6:30 a.m. Many people reported smoke and flames billowing from the building.
Emergency crews had to block off southbound lanes for a few hours to battle the inferno, which meant thousands of Calgarians were forced to find alternate routes during the morning rush.
“Firefighters were unable to enter the structure due to the intense fire inside and there was a risk of building collapse, which actually happen, so it’s good that our fire crews did not go inside because that becomes quite dangerous,” Carol Henke with the fire department explained, noting the roof caved in.
Crews still on scene after a fire broke out early this AM at Ginger Beef Bistro House on Macleod Tr. SW. Arson unit has been called in to investigate #yyc #calgary @citynewscalgary pic.twitter.com/bjBE4MHcT3
— Nick Blakeney (@CameraGuyNick) December 6, 2021
“From the reports that we’ve received and what fire crews saw on scene, [it looks like] it perhaps started on the outside and worked its way in through the roof and the ceiling, into the building. But, again, it’s early on.”
She adds there were also reports someone was seen in the area when the fire broke out.
“That’s all taken into consideration. We have a fire investigator there on the scene and the CPS arson detectives have been called to the scene as well, because it does appear that this fire may be suspicious.”
UPDATE: SB Macloed Tr remains CLOSED. Drivers detoured off the route at 90 Ave.
NB Macloed Tr is fully open. #yyc #yyctraffic #yycroads #abroads #660traffic pic.twitter.com/GIQdH87sxQ
— CityNews Calgary (@citynewscalgary) December 6, 2021
Henke says investigators are now looking to the public for help in figuring out what exactly happened.
You can email pictures or video to piofire@calgary.ca.
Macleod Trail has since reopened to southbound traffic at 90 Avenue.
