Arson investigation launched after fire sends 6, including newborn baby, to hospital in Winnipeg

Winnipeg police are investigating a possible arson after a fire in a West End apartment building sent six people to hospital, including a newborn baby and a child under the age of six.

Fire crews were called to the 400 block of Sherbrook Street on Friday. They found a blaze on the top floor of the three-storey apartment building.

Fire crews used a ladder truck to reach the flames and put the fire out.

The six people were brought to hospital because of smoke inhalation. Police spokesman Const. Jay Murray said two were in unstable condition at the time, but all have since been released from hospital.

"There's a lot of people that could potentially be harmed in this situation," Murray said.

"I think we've seen a number of fires across the world in apartment blocks that have been fatal. So it is very concerning, both for the public and the police service."

Police estimate that the fire caused $1 million in damage. 

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