Huge clouds of black smoke could be seen rising from downtown Mission yesterday afternoon.
Mission Fire Rescue Service was called out to a blaze at Warcraft Games, located at 33237 1 Ave. on Monday, April 13, at about 1:45 p.m.
When crews arrived, smoke was pouring out of the business and flames could be seen in the back alley.
The fire burned for most of the day and into the evening as crews attempted to get it under control.
Assistant Fire Chief Norm MacLeod said it was difficult to contain.
“It was hard to put out due to the age of the buildings, void spaces and a lack of sprinklers.”
As the fire spread to adjacent buildings, the roof began to collapse.
Despite the damage, there are no injuries to report, either civilian or firefighters.
In all, about 50 firefighters were on scene and on standby to battle the blaze. All three Mission stations attended and a ladder truck from the Abbotsford Fire Department and the Abbotsford Duty Chief were also there to assist.
The cause of the fire is not yet known. The Mission Fire Rescue Service investigator is on scene today.
While it’s too early to determine how extensive the damage is, it appears that neighbouring businesses, like Swing Optical and Goody Too Shoes Footwear and Accessories, may have also been damaged by the fire.
Some apartments in the area suffered smoke and water damage.