Winnipeg hospital fire was arson, police say

A million-dollar fire at Winnipeg's Health Sciences Centre was deliberately set, police say.

The investigation has determined a flammable device was used to ignite the blaze, which sent smoke into the adjacent Children's Hospital and forced 92 sick kids to be moved out and relocated to another area of HSC.

The patients had to be moved down stairwells by staff and parents who were there. Cribs and beds and medical supplies had to be moved with them.

The fire started on March 5 at around 11:30 p.m. in an under-construction area of the diagnostic building. It also impacted portions of the HSC's Ann Thomas Building.

After a few hours, the smoke cleared and the Children's Hospital patients were allowed to return. No one was hurt.

Const. Jason Michalyshen says the evacuation went smoothly, but it could have been a lot worse.

"It's just really unfortunate … a lot of people there [were] receiving care and in a variety of different situations, and likely a lot of people who were dealing with a lot of tough things and had a lot on their plate," he said Monday.

In a statement issued Monday, the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority said any case of arson was disappointing, and this case was no different.

Authority officials said they are grateful for the support of the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service and the Winnipeg Police Service.

No one has been arrested and police have no suspects.