UPDATED: 1:13 p.m. Dec. 10
Estevan fire crews responded to a call of heavy smoke inside a three-story apartment complex in the early morning hours on Wednesday.
The Estevan Fire and Rescue Service is reporting Michael Muir, 40, was found unresponsive and in full cardiac arrest. Estevan Fire Chief Shane Code said as soon as the fire service’s search team accessed the suite, Muir was found immediately and was extracted from the unit.
Paramedics and members of the fire service attempted life saving measures in the front yard of the complex before Muir was sent by ambulance to St. Joseph’s Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
When fire crews arrived at the scene on Perkins Street just prior to 2 a.m., most residents of the building were outside.
With the assistance of the Estevan Police Service, crews went door to door ensuring a complete evacuation of the building, making forcible access when there was no answer.
Code said while they haven’t determined the cause, it appeared the fire originated in the kitchen and was extremely hot.
“There were high enough heat conditions that products were melting in bedrooms well removed from the heat source, which originated in the kitchen,” said Code.
Estevan Fire and Rescue is working with the Office of the Fire Marshall to conduct a comprehensive investigation to determine the cause and origin of the fire.
For updates, follow www.estevanmercury.ca and check next week’s edition of the Estevan Mercury for a complete story.
