Fire crews battled a blaze in the 700 block of Selkirk Avenue between Parr Street and McKenzie Street Tuesday night.
No injuries were reported in the fire, which started just after 7:45 p.m. Crews treated it as a defensive fire and also used a drone for the first time to help survey the scene and detect hot spots.
“With the drone’s help, the commander of the scene was better able to critically assess the dangers of this fire and direct the crews to target the fire in a more efficient manner,” said assistant chief Jay Shaw.
The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service drone was launched last month and is designed to be used in several scenarios including water rescues and hazardous materials response.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation and crews are expected to remain on scene for the majority of Wednesday. The rest of the building will be taken down because of the damage.
WATCH: Firefighters battle Selkirk Avenue blaze