Two women dead, others recovering after house fire near Winnipeg’s downtown

WINNIPEG — Two of the five people who were transported to hospital after a house fire near Winnipeg’s downtown over the weekend have died.

The Winnipeg Police Service said Sunday an 18-year-old woman and a 48-year-old woman died from their injuries and its major crimes unit has taken over the investigation.

The duo were among the three people who were transported to hospital in critical condition and seven in total who were assessed after firefighters responded to a call for a home billowing with flames and smoke just before 10 a.m. on Saturday.

Police said in a statement Sunday that the third person who was transported to hospital in critical condition was in stable condition.

Investigators did not say how the two others who were transported in stable condition and two who were assessed at the scene were doing.

A previous statement said it took firefighters nearly fives hours to get the blaze under control and neighbouring homes were evacuated.

A union representing firefighters said in a post on social media that it was deeply saddened.

“Each loss is profound,” said United Fire Fighters of Winnipeg, IAFF Local 867.

“Tragic outcomes weigh heavily on firefighters who respond prepared to risk everything in an attempt to rescue trapped occupants. Despite their best efforts, some emergencies end in heartbreak — and those moments stay with crews long after the call is over.”

It said the tragedy should remind Winnipeggers that fire can affect anyone.

“Fire safety must be part of every household’s plan.”

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Feb. 8, 2026.

The Canadian Press