Early morning fire destroys northern Manitoba school

RCMP and the Berens River First Nation Chief and Council have confirmed that the Berens River School is a complete loss following a fire Tuesday morning.

Officials say police and fire crews responded to a report that the school was on fire at 3 a.m.

RCMP say that a night guard who was on scene had reportedly noticed the school filling with smoke.

When firefighters were at the school, they tried to extinguish the blaze in a crawl space in the north wing of the school, but the fire grew out of control, and the school was deemed a complete loss.

Berens River First Nation Chief and Council advised the community to remain indoors and avoid exposure to smoke, as it may contain toxic materials posing potential health risks.

An investigation into the cause of the fire is underway, and at this time, fire officials say the cause does not appear to be suspicious. Additionally, no injuries were reported due to the blaze.

The school, which has served as a staple of the community since construction began in 1968, was used by 380 students and Chief and Council are reportedly looking into temporary classroom space and alternative learning arrangements so students can resume their education as soon as possible.

“We will do everything in our power to rebuild. We will engage every available resource to bring a strong and timely solution to this tragedy,” said Chief and Council in a statement.

Grand Chief Kyra Wilson also said in a statement that the loss reaches far beyond a building. “A school is more than walls and classrooms. It is where our children feel safe, where culture and language are carried forward, and where futures begin. What Berens River has lost is deeply felt across our Nations.”

Before noting that the AMC is working to support the community, saying, “We are here in respect and in solidarity. We will follow the lead of Chief Hartley Everett and Council and stand ready to support their children, their families, and their community in the next steps.”