Fire sweeps through downtown Moose Jaw

Four businesses and several apartments have been destroyed by a fire in downtown Moose Jaw.

The blaze started in a historic building on High Street West around 10 p.m. Wednesday night.

The flames spread through the ceilings of the businesses, and crews spent several hours getting the fire under control.

Officials say 18 people who live in apartments above the businesses all got out safely.

The Salvation Army and the Red Cross were at the scene helping those forced from their homes. Those people were staying in hotels or with friends.

Reporting from the scene Thursday, CTV Regina’s Wayne Mantyka said the historic building had to be demolished because the walls were on the verge of collapse. He said the rubble was still smouldering around noon.

Moose Jaw Mayor Deb Higgins said it's quite a loss for the community and she hopes the businesses will rebuild.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

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  Several businesses and apartments in a block in downtown Moose Jaw have been extensively damaged by fire.

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  Fire caused extensive damage to a building in downtown Moose Jaw late Wednesday evening.

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  Firefighters battle a fire that broke out late Wednesday in a building on High Street West in Moose Jaw.

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  Firefighters battle a fire that broke out late Wednesday in a building on High Street West in Moose Jaw.