Investigation underway after Cochrane, Alta. blaze destroys 2 homes

The skies around Cochrane, Alta., were lit with an orange glow Tuesday evening, Dec. 3, 2024, as a huge fire destroyed two homes that were under construction.

The town’s fire chief, Shawn Polley, said the two homes on Rivercrest View, on the south side of the Bow River, were completely engulfed when firefighters arrived on scene around 7:20 p.m.

“There were no occupants in the area,” said Polley. “Our crews went to work real quick with our partners with Rocky View County Fire Services and they got a quick knock-down.”

The flames were so intense they could be seen across much of the town.

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The fire also caused some melted siding and other minor damage to a neighbouring home.

“It looks like folks are going to find another place to stay for tonight and stay with family or friends,” added Polley.

Fire crews also had to deal with several other potential hazards while fighting the fire, including several large propane tanks and it was in an active construction zone.

Fire investigators are working with the construction company to try to determine the cause of the fire.

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