Approximately 125 people were forced out of a building in Kensington on Thursday evening after it was determined it was at risk of collapsing.
Calgary firefighters, police and the Calgary Emergency Management Agency (CEMA) were called to Kensington Manor, an eight-storey complex housing both apartments and businesses located at 321 10 Street N.W., at around 5 p.m.
The Calgary Fire Department (CFD) said the building was at risk of “possible imminent collapse.”
Crews evacuated 57 units in total.
Residents at Kensington Manor had only 15 minutes to gather their belongings before leaving.
“In my living room I have a massive crack from the top of the building to the very bottom … that that’s been growing a little bit,” Rachele Clavaginer said. “I’m glad that at least someone did something, caught onto it.”
The building had been inspected by a building inspector and structural engineer on Thursday before the evacuation was ordered.
WATCH: Over a hundred people were forced to pack their bags after their building was evacuated after a concerning risk. The 8 storey apartment has been deemed unsafe – and nobody is allowed to stay. Jill Croteau reports.
Repairs are now needed to ensure the integrity of the building.
It’s unknown when residents will be allowed back into the building. Those who live at Kensington Manor are being encouraged to check in at an information centre at the Hillhurst Community School located at 1418 7 Avenue N.W.
– With files from Jill Croteau