A two-alarm fire erupted in the ceiling and roof of a 15-story residential high-rise in Calgary's Beltline neighborhood on Friday afternoon, May 29, 2026, prompting dozens of residents to evacuate.
The Calgary Fire Department received emergency calls around 4:20 p. m.
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at the 1000 block of 13 Avenue S. W.
First responders saw visible flames and heavy smoke rising from the top of the structure.
Firefighters launched an internal attack while evacuating nearby units. The building contains between 72 and 75 units.
A ladder truck accessed exterior balconies, but no residents needed rescue through it.
Most occupants scrambled to safety, though some in unaffected areas stayed inside.
“If the fire is not in somebody’s unit they can safely shelter in place, particularly if they use a mobility aid, a wheelchair or walker or something like that so you can’t get down the stairs safely,” said Alex Kwan, Calgary Fire Department Information Officer.
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An overhaul team punched holes in the ceiling to stop the fire from spreading. Crews mostly extinguished the blaze by 5:30 p.
m.
Paramedics transported one person to the hospital with minor injuries sustained during the evacuation. One firefighter was assessed on scene for minor injuries.
Calgary Police closed 13 Avenue S. W.
between 9 Street and 10 Street, causing severe traffic congestion during the evening rush hour. Utility support came from ATCO Gas, Enmax, and Alberta Health Services paramedics.
Most residents were allowed to re-occupy the building and reunite with their pets later that evening, except those in two top-floor units.
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Fire investigators remain on scene to determine the cause, and a fire watch crew rotated through the night.
