Fire at vacant Winnipeg home prompts Thursday morning road closures

A morning fire on William Avenue resulted in an emergency demolition of a home.

A house fire in Winnipeg’s Centennial neighbourhood has prompted Thursday morning road closures in the area.

According to the City of Winnipeg, crews were first called to the fire at vacant home in the 500 block of William Avenue around 11:40 p.m. on Wednesday.

When firefighters got to the scene, they found heavy smoke and flames coming from the home. Crews launched an exterior attack as it was not safe to go inside.

As of Thursday morning, firefighters are still on scene, using aerial ladders and hand lines to extinguish the blaze.

Roads are closed on William between Juno and Kate streets. These closures are expected to remain in place throughout the morning and possibly later into the day.

Out of precaution, neighbouring homes were evacuated. No one was hurt.

According to the City of Winnipeg, the home is a complete loss due to extensive smoke, fire and water damage. The house was also the site of three previous fires between August and October 2025.

Once conditions allow, firefighters will determine whether an emergency demolition is needed. The fire is under investigation.

The city is reminding residents that if you see someone going into a vacant building or removing boards from windows or doors, you should call 911. If you notice the boarded windows or doors have been tampered with, but do not see someone trying to enter, you should report the incident to 311.