With owners watching on Friday, Sept. 5 at about 6:20 a.m., fire crews continued to douse flames CrossRoads Brewing and Distillery at 508 George St., which burned in the early hours of Friday morning.
The call came in at 2:49 a.m.
Owners chose not to comment at the scene, but did issue a statement on Facebook: "Sad and devastating news this morning ... There’s been a serious fire at CrossRoads downtown. Thank you to the fire crews still working to put it out. We will update with more information as it’s available."
The building is located at the corner of Fifth Avenue and George Street. The business was set to host its annual Street Fest with live music this weekend.
People were being advised to avoid the area as toxic smoke filled the air.
By 8 a.m., crews were directing their hoses into the building's interior, where the distillation and brewing vats are located.
RCMP were called in to investigate.
“The investigation is still in its early stages," stated Cpl. Jennifer Cooper, media relations officer with the Prince George RCMP. "We ask the public to stay clear of the 500 block of George Street to allow first responders room to work safely. Currently we are looking to see if anyone in the neighbourhood has any video surveillance, cell phone video or dash camera video that would have captured movement outside the business or give any indication as to how or where the fire started. Any information to help advance this investigation would be appreciated."
Anyone with information is asked to call the Prince George RCMP non-emergency line at 250-561-3300 to speak with an investigator.
