Overnight, Vancouver Fire Rescue Services (VFRS) responded to a fire at Seven Maples, a residential building at 1987 West 7th Avenue.
The fire began at approximately 2:30 AM. VFRS arrived on scene immediately to put out the fire, provide medical services and evacuate residents, supported by agency partners at VPD and BC Ambulance Services. Eight people have been transported to the hospital with injuries.
As of 8 AM, Vancouver Emergency Management Agency (VEMA) has registered 20 of 38 residents displaced and will be providing short-term accommodation, as well as food, clothing and other needed services through the Emergency Support Services (ESS) program. VEMA continues to work with the property owner, BC Housing, to contact remaining residents and assess their needs. ESS is a provincial program, funded by the Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness, administered and delivered by local governments.
VFRS is supporting limited re-entry for residents to recover items.
A full investigation will take place to determine the circumstances surrounding this incident. We ask for the public’s patience and understanding as this investigation proceeds.