Major fire destroys Boys and Girls Club in St. Anthony, Wednesday night

Firefighters from the St. Anthony Volunteer Fire Department, along with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and NL Health Services, responded to the Boys and Girls Club on West Street just before 7:00 p.m. after receiving reports of heavy smoke coming from the building.

Upon arrival, firefighters encountered thick black smoke primarily emanating from the rear of the structure. Crews quickly began laying attack lines and establishing a supply line as the fire rapidly expanded, with heavy flames visible from the rear and both sides of the building.

Firefighters worked on the scene for approximately seven hours to extinguish the flames and address any remaining hotspots. While reports indicate that no injuries occurred during the incident, this has yet to be confirmed by the RCMP.

• Media Post from the RCMP during the blaze:

St. Anthony RCMP and St. Anthony Fire Department are currently on the scene at the Boys and Girls Club in St. Anthony. RCMP advises that motorists will not be permitted through the area from Tucker’s Lane to Marine Drive at this time.

Firefighters are monitoring a large fuel tank nearby to ensure there is no risk to public safety. While there is no evacuation order at this time, RCMP suggests that people in nearby buildings, including the MAC building leave out of an abundance of caution.

The town of St. Anthony has opened up the council building as a warming centre for anybody who needs to leave the area. Motorists are advised to avoid the area so that emergency personnel can deal with the situation.

Newfound News will have updates as they become available.

(Caleb Farrell//Newfoundnews)