Two people were taken to hospital with smoke inhalation after a fire in an aging apartment block in downtown Port Coquitlam Tuesday morning.
The fire started at around 10:50 a.m. and affected three buildings at 2442, 2444, and 2446 Wilson Ave., according to a post on X (formerly known as Twitter) by the city's mayor, Brad West.
He said the city has mobilized its emergency support services team at the nearby Port Coquitllam Community Centre for residents who've been displaced by the fire.
"My concern and priority is with supporting all those impacted," said West. "We will continue to ensure all necessary resources are available."
1/ At 10:50 am this morning, a fire started in an apartment building affecting 2442, 2444 and 2446 Wilson Ave. Port Coquitlam’s Fire Fighters have been providing an immediate and comprehensive response. The fire is contained and will be fully extinguished. pic.twitter.com/gWBf1YfdfH
— Brad West (@BradWestPoCo) June 18, 2024
As a result of the firefighting effort, several roads in downtown Port Coquitlam are closed.
Wilson is closed between Reeve and Shaughnessy streets and Reeve is closed between Wilson and Kelly Avenue. The 2400 block of Atkins Avenue is also blocked off.
The city is also advising any nearby residents struggling with the smoke should shelter in place.
Almost two years ago, a fire in another Wilson Avenue apartment complex just a few blocks east displaced dozens of residents who've yet to return to their homes after a major reconstruction project to repair the damage was delayed by insurance problems and a scaffolding collapse.
More to come....
