An investigation is underway after a deadly fire broke out at a Lethbridge home early Saturday morning.
Firefighters were called to a house in the 600 block of 5 Street S., at about 1:30 a.m., the Lethbridge Police Service said in a news release.
“Upon arrival, crews found no visible fire, with limited smoke coming from the door to the basement,” police said. “Crews entered and found heavy smoke with a small amount of flames.
“The fire was quickly extinguished, and a male occupant was located inside.”
Police said the 50-year-old man was taken to Chinook Regional Hospital in life-threatening condition and later died of his injuries. They said a dog was also found dead inside the home.
“I’m shocked,” said Peter Remple, a neighbour of the man who died. “I’m sad about it. I like the man
“It’s always nice to have neighbours that you feel some type of connection to.”
A person who told Global News they were friends with the man who died said he will be “sorely missed.”
“He helped out everybody on this block,” Lexi Fowler said.
“The neighbourhood has lost a great man.”
Both LPS and Lethbridge Fire and Emergency Services are investigating the cause of the fire.
Police said they expect to provide an update to media on Monday.