Fire engulfs homeless encampment in Winnipeg's West End

Fire destroyed a homeless encampment Sunday evening in Winnipeg's West End.

Emergency crews were called just after 6 p.m. to the encampment on Langside Street, between Sargent and Cumberland avenues, in a fenced area that is a memorial garden in summer.

Several tents were engulfed in flames and smoke, according to a news release from the city.

Crews also heard numerous small explosions believedto be from compressed gas cylinders and propane tanks.

Residents of the encampment, as well as two neighbouring homes,evacuated to safety before crews arrived. No injuries were reported.

Staff from Downtown Community Safety Partnership came to the encampment to help about 10 displaced residents, some of whom declined assistance, according to the news release.

The encampment is a complete loss and thecause of the fire is under investigation.

One of the neighbouring homes received minor heat and smoke damage.