Brazeau added the origin of the fire appears to be a garage located on an adjacent private lot on Saint-Antoine Street, just behind Séguin Sport.

"The fire spread to two apartment buildings and was quickly brought under control. It also spread to a second adjacent garage before being extinguished just as quickly. However, we were unable to bring the blaze under control when it started at Séguin Sport," said Brazeau.

The building's characteristics and the presence of fuel and tires complicated the firefighters' task, said Brazeau who was standing near the structure during his update.

Séguin Sport, at 5 rue Saint-Jean-Baptiste Est, is an institution that has been a fixture in the heart of the village since 1970. A few days ago, the store displayed some of its vehicles during the Fête Nationale parade.

Seven fire departments are working alongside Rigaud firefighters to control and put out the blaze which has caused millions of dollars in damage.

"We ask citizens to avoid the area as much as possible to allow us to continue operations safely. The provincial Ministry of Transport is on the scene to divert traffic, but please avoid driving around the perimeter," said Brazeau.

"Fortunately, no injuries have been reported. Citizens evacuated from the affected apartments will be able to return to their homes soon. No damage has been reported to dwellings except for the exterior siding," Brazeau added before returning to direct firefighting personnel.