Police and firefighters responded Sunday to a blaze at an apartment complex that was still being built, according to Langley RCMP. Vancouver Sun
A massive fire tore through an apartment complex under construction in Langley City early Sunday morning. The blaze started around 4:13 a.m. near 201st Street and Fraser Highway. Thick smoke filled the air and flames lit up the sky, forcing emergency crews to move quickly.
Evacuations and Safety
Police and firefighters rushed to the scene. Out of caution, officers ordered nearby residents to leave their homes. “Out of an abundance of caution, several neighbouring residential buildings were evacuated,” said RCMP Sgt. Zynal Sharoom in a statement.
Authorities confirmed no injuries. Crews worked for hours to contain the fire. Firefighters managed to stop the flames from spreading to other properties.
Cause Under Investigation
Investigators continue to search for the cause. Police said they are working closely with Langley City Fire Rescue. “We are working with the Langley City Fire Rescue on this incident and the investigation into the cause of this fire is ongoing,” Sgt. Sharoom added.
Officers asked the public to come forward with information. Anyone with dashcam footage or who saw unusual activity should call Langley RCMP at 604-532-3200.
Langley’s Troubling Fire History
This is not the first time Langley has faced destructive construction fires. Just last month, flames ripped through a home under construction on 48th Avenue. The blaze destroyed the structure before it was completed.
In July 2023, a welding truck exploded near a site at Willoughby Town Centre. The blast shook nearby businesses, scattering shrapnel across a parking lot. Fortunately, no one suffered injuries in that incident.
Earlier in June 2021, another fire consumed a residential project on 80th Avenue. Only two months before, flames destroyed a different construction site nearby.
The string of fires has raised concerns in the community. Residents worry about safety and the repeated destruction of new housing projects.
Community Impact
The latest fire left many in shock. Residents who evacuated in the early morning stood outside watching the flames. Some captured videos on their phones as crews battled the inferno. Others comforted neighbours who were forced from their homes with little warning.
Officials have not said how many people evacuated, but dozens left their homes in the dark. By sunrise, firefighters had brought the fire under control. Roads near the site remained closed as crews monitored hotspots.
What Happens Next
Rebuilding will take time. The destroyed complex was part of Langley’s growing housing supply. With the city already facing high demand for homes, the fire adds pressure to future development plans.
Investigators are expected to release more details in the coming weeks. For now, police continue to appeal for public help.
