Crews responding to active fire in New Westminster

A New Westminster apartment building has been evacuated as crews fight an active fire on Sunday morning.

The fire is burning at 37 Agnes Street, located in the downtown area of New Westminster near the new stal̕əw̓asəm (Riverview) Bridge, with approximately 45 firefighters on scene.

Fire Chief Erin Williams said crews first responded at 3:45 a.m. PT, arriving to heavy flames from a third floor balcony.

"Crews reported heavy smoke and fire," Williams said.

"The fire had extended into the interior of the building and had impacted several suites on the third floor."

Williams said crews evacuated the building, including several people with mobility challenges and a pet.

"A search was done for the entire building and all residents were evacuated," Williams said.

He said all residents were evacuated to a bus where they were taken to an emergency reception centre that has been set up for displaced residents at the təməsew̓txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre located on East 6th Avenue.

Williams said the fire was upgraded to a third alarm, and Burnaby firefighters have joined to help.

He said paramedics are on scene, and no injuries have currently been reported.

The City of New Westminster said in a social media post Royal Avenue between Fourth Street and McBride Boulevard is closed in all directions, and it is asking people to avoid the area.

Williams said crews will investigate once the fire is out and it is safe to enter the building.