A convenience store in Winnipeg’s St. John’s neighbourhood went up in flames for the second time in two weeks Monday morning. Firefighters responded to a fire at Bannerman Grocery on Bannerman Avenue at 7:25 a.m. The building was previously damaged by a fire on Feb. 18. When firefighters arrived, heavy smoke and flames were seen coming from the building, forcing crews to fight the fire from the outside, as it was not safe to enter the building. The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) drone was used to help firefighters find hot spots and direct water streams. Neighbouring houses were evacuated as a precaution. The WFPS said no injuries were reported. The WFPS said an emergency demolition of the building will take place as it has sustained severe smoke, fire and water damage. City crews will be monitoring the area and applying de-icing materials as the roads are slippery in the area due to the water from the firefighting efforts. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
