The Kitsilano neighborhood experienced a significant event on Monday evening when an explosion displaced six residents from their homes. The explosion occurred shortly before 4 p.m. at a residence near MacDonald Street and West 6th Avenue.
Kitsilano Basement Blast Details
Vancouver Fire Rescue Services (VFRS) confirmed that firefighters responded to reports of a building collapse, which turned out to be an explosion and subsequent fire in the basement. The incident resulted from an electrical fire, according to Assistant Chief Pierre Morin.
Response and Investigation
Upon arrival, crews quickly shut off utilities to the building. An engineer assessed the structure’s safety, allowing firefighters to enter and extinguish the flames. Despite their efforts, the chief building inspector later declared the building off-limits for residents.
Impact on Residents
Six individuals were displaced due to this incident. Two tenants received emergency accommodation assistance through social services, while the remaining four found housing independently. Fire Chief Karen Fry provided updates on the assistance offered to those affected.
Firefighting Efforts
- 36 firefighters responded to the incident.
- Investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing.
- The explosion is categorized as accidental but remains undetermined.
Road closures on MacDonald Street and West 6th Avenue lasted several hours but have since been lifted. The community continues to monitor the situation as authorities investigate the underlying cause of the explosion.
