Grande Prairie apartment building burns, dozens displaced, fire department dispatches investigators

It was a worst-case scenario, said Grande Prairie’s fire chief, Mark VanWerkhoven. It was a combustible multi-story apartment building, housing a disproportionate number of residents with mobility, language and other barriers, extreme wind and humidity conditions and heavily tasked resources from previous days. Not even the best training scenario-writer could have come up with something so laden with complications.

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The call came in just after midnight on June 9, he added. Grande Prairie Fire Department’s (GPFD) initial response to the Margaret Edgson Manor, a four-story building on the city’s northwest side with 72 units, included two engines, a ladder, and a platoon chief. When they arrived, the fire on the fourth floor and roof was already fully engaged. Within minutes, resources began arriving from other fire stations.

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First responders from EMS, RCMP and Grande Prairie Police Service were instrumental in rescue efforts. They were needed, added VanWerkhoven. The building, owned by the Grande Prairie Residential Society (GPRS), is an assisted living project that provides affordable housing. Residents requiring wheelchairs, oxygen and assistance were located throughout the building, including the third and fourth floors.

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“I don’t recall exactly how many RCMP and GPPS, but there was a significant number of them along the EMS who were instrumental in assisting with the evacuation of the apartment block.”

Several residents requiring medical treatment were transferred to Grande Prairie Regional Hospital, but officials confirmed there were no fatalities.  The city’s transit system began transporting the displaced residents to temporary accommodations.

EMS personnel recognized the potential of the hospital’s auditorium to provide immediate shelter for displaced residents. It was a surprise resource that turned out to be an excellent idea, said VanWerkhoven. Once confirmed, impacted residents were transported. Hotels were booked for longer-term accommodations. Other organizations were alerted and began the process of finding long-term solutions.

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By approximately 8 a.m., the fire was determined to be out, units stayed on site in the event there were any potential flare-ups, and fire investigators were already working.

The damage to the building is extensive, said VanWerkhoven. Now it’s time for the investigation. The objective is to find root causes and contributing factors. An RCMP media release is also looking for potential investigative material.

Cpl. Mathew Howell, public information officer, issued a request for any video or dashcam footage the public might have.

“Grande Prairie RCMP is seeking the public’s assistance in acquiring dashcam or other video footage of the area around the time of the incident and submit anything of interest.”

Howell said the purpose was to find anything that may provide external evidence of where the fire began or indicate what the cause was. Anyone with video that can be used is asked to call the RCMP or use CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-8477 if they wish to remain anonymous.

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GPRS, owners of the building, released a statement thanking those who responded.

“The Board of the Grande Prairie Residential Society extends our heartfelt concern for our tenants displaced by last night’s catastrophic fire at Margaret Edgson Manor. We are deeply saddened by this event and are committed to supporting our residents during this difficult time.

We wish to send a huge thank you to the first responders, our property managers – The Grande Spirit Foundation, and the many others who assisted with the evacuation, temporary resettlement, and ongoing support of our residents. Your dedication and quick action have proven invaluable.”

Residents looking for information can call (780) 532-3276 or email info@grandespirit.org for more information, assistance or updates.

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