Vacant Shaughnessy mansion gutted in 3-alarm blaze overnight

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The three-alarm fire broke out just before 3 a.m., at a home in the 3700 block of Angus Drive.

A resident of the neighbourhood had called 911 after seeing smoke and flames coming from the 6,000 square foot home.

Flames were tearing through the roof of the house when crews first arrived. 

"It's quite a nice home," said Vancouver Fire Deputy Chief Brian Godlonton. "And unfortunately another vacant home in our city that's gone up in flames."

Vacant house hazards

Some neighbours told CBC News the house had been vacant for several years.

Godlonton added fire crews can face several hazards when dealing with fires in empty houses.

"These vacant homes are becoming more and more of a challenge, not only for the community but for our firefighters," he said.

"You never know what you're up for when you come into these fires."

Godlonton said it's too early to tell if the fire is suspicious. The cause is under investigation.