A Winnipeg family has lost their Linden Woods home to a massive fire, which ignited at about 7:30 a.m. Friday.
Watch:
The home at 111 Shoreline Drive was completely engulfed, causing an estimated $3 million in damage.
Plumes of smoke could be seen billowing from the home several blocks away from Sterling Lyon Parkway and nearby Kenaston Boulevard.
The multi-level home is owned by Edward Kennedy, the CEO of The North West Company. Kennedy and his family — wife Stella and their four children — were inside the home when the fire started, but all occupants were able to get out safely. Kennedy also serves as chair of United Way of Winnipeg’s 2011 fundraising campaign.
The cause of the fire has been determined to be accidental in nature, starting with a heater in the garage.
According to city property records, the home was built in 1994 and valued at $995,000 in 2010.
UPDATE: The North West Company has released the following statement:
Earlier this morning a fire destroyed the home of the President & CEO of The North West Company Inc., Edward Kennedy. The Kennedy family escaped unharmed.
“We are thankful Edward, Stella and their children are all safe” said Sandy Riley, Chairman of the Board. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family as they deal with this tragic loss. We ask that the public and the media respect their privacy at this time.”
Operations at The North West Company are not affected by the incident.
ChrisD.ca video
