Dozens Evacuated as Crews Battle Major Apartment Fire Near Prince George High School

Firefighters in Prince George, B.C., responded to a major apartment fire early Thursday morning in the city’s Heritage neighbourhood, prompting the evacuation of approximately 50 residents.

The blaze broke out around 6 a.m. at a three-storey apartment complex near D.P. Todd Secondary School and 5th Avenue. Flames were seen shooting from the top-floor windows, and heavy black smoke was visible across the city as the roof collapsed and parts of the structure crumbled.

Assistant fire chief A.C. Valentine said firefighters were on the scene within minutes of the call and quickly began evacuating residents. While most units were cleared, two apartments remained inaccessible as of early Thursday morning. No injuries have yet been confirmed, and CBC News has reached out to B.C. Emergency Health Services for more information.

Six fire trucks and multiple ambulances responded to the scene. By 7:30 a.m., the fire had begun to come under control, though hotspots were still being tackled by crews.

Local residents showed their support by offering hot drinks to evacuees and turning on sprinklers to protect nearby homes. Significant damage is visible from both the front and rear of the building.

Valentine said it's too soon to determine what caused the fire, and a full investigation will follow once the scene is safe.