Broken windows and witness reports indicate a house fire in Saskatoon's Mount Royal neighbourhood Saturday morning is suspicious, according to the Saskatoon Fire Department.
Fire crews were called to the 1800 block of 22nd Street West around 8:40 a.m. Heavy smoke and flames were coming through a home’s front windows when crews arrived.
Firefighters attacked the blaze from outside the residence before quickly putting out the flames and searching the home.
“We had it under control and the flames knocked down in about 15 minutes,” said Battalion Chief Rick Haines.
No one was in the home.
“It was not abandoned. We believe it was occupied, but as to the whereabouts of the occupants, we’re not sure," Haines said.
A fire investigator and a Saskatoon police arson investigator were called to the scene.
Windows broken prior to fire crews arrival and reports of partying indicate the fire is suspicious, according to Haines. One witness told police they saw someone jump out of a window shortly before the blaze.
“We suspect it’s of a suspicious nature," Haines said.
One firefighter sustained minor injuries during the search of the home after debris fell down the sleeve of his arm.
A fire hydrant, located opposite the home, across 22nd Street, led crews to block off traffic in both directions for about an hour.
A damage estimate has yet to be determined.
