1 dead after fire breaks out in southwest Calgary home

One person is dead after a fire broke out in a townhouse in southwest Calgary on Tuesday afternoon.

Around 4:18 p.m., fire crews were notified about an incident in the 4400 block of Richardson Way, according to Gordon Fercho, who is a district chief with the Calgary Fire Department (CFD).

"Upon arrival, crews found thick black smoke and flames coming out the front door of the structure. It was fully involved with fire," Fercho said before adding, "Crews were able to enter with a hose line and extinguish the fire."

Cause of fire unknown

Crews found a male victim while searching the scene. Paramedics immediately began 'lifesaving efforts,' the CFD said in a release.

He was subsequently taken to Rockyview General Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.

The crew was able to get the blaze under control. Residents in the neighbourhood were evacuated from their homes for a short time as a safety measure but have now been allowed to return.

The townhouse in question has suffered significant damage from the fire but no neighbouring properties were affected.

However, the cause of the fire remains unknown, Fercho said.

"We had no reports upon arrival or en route of an explosion at this address."

The fire department did not release the age or the name of the victim.