At approximately 1:30 pm on Friday, July 10, NWFRS responded to a First Alarm apartment fire at 905 Fourth Avenue. Upon arrival, crews encountered multiple units on fire with residents trapped on balconies. Firefighters rescued several residents using ground ladders while simultaneously attacking the fire from inside the building and assisting with evacuations.

The fire was quickly upgraded to a Third Alarm response, with mutual aid provided by Burnaby Fire Department and the call-out of off-duty NWFRS personnel. At the height of the incident, eight fire apparatus, including two aerial trucks, were on scene.

Firefighters brought the fire under control at approximately 2:30 am on Saturday, July 11. While the main fire has been contained, crews continue to extinguish remaining hotspots using large volumes of water. An excavator has been brought to the site to help crews safely access difficult-to-reach areas, and firefighters are expected to remain on scene throughout the day.

The affected apartment building contains 42 units. As a precaution, a neighbouring apartment building of approximately 20-30 units was also evacuated. It is estimated that 150 residents have been displaced. All residents have been accounted for. 

New Westminster Neighbourhood House is coordinating community donations for residents affected by the fire.

Financial donations and gift cards provide the greatest flexibility to meet individual needs. Monetary donations can be sent by e-transfer to . New or gently used clothing and shoes, and gift cards (preferably in smaller denominations), can be dropped off at Lord Kelvin Elementary School gymnasium, 1010 Hamilton Street (access from Seventh Avenue). Donation hours will be:

• Saturday, July 11, 1:00 – 5:00 pm
• Sunday, July 12, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm

UPDATE JULY 12: Due to the overwhelming generosity of the community, the donation centre is at capacity for clothing and shoes, and cannot accept any more of these items. NWNH is still accepting cash, gift cards, and e-transfers. Thank you to everyone who donated. One items are sorted and needs assessed, if there are any gaps, a call-out will be posted for specific items.

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