A person is dead following a fire in an apartment building in Chilliwack.

The fire broke out on the top floor of a three-storey apartment building on Victoria Avenue in downtown Chilliwack Thursday morning (Jan. 23).

Emergency responders were en route to what was called a "working fire" just after 9 a.m. including crews from Chilliwack Fire Department, RCMP and BC Ambulance Service.

"Upon arrival, fire alarms were sounding, but no visible smoke was detected from the exterior," assistant fire chief Krista Minar stated in a press release later that same day. "After further investigation, crews confirmed (there was) an active fire within the unit, prompting a call for additional resources."

Firefighters from Halls 1, 2, 4, and 6 were dispatched to the scene.

Crews conducted an "aggressive fire attack," and were able to contain the fire to the one unit.

Before crews arrived, a man who lives in the unit beside the one that caught fire said he heard the smoke alarms going off, opened his door, and saw where the fire was coming from. He banged on the door but there was no answer.

"Tragically fire crews discovered a deceased individual at the scene. The Chilliwack Fire Department extends its deepest condolences to the family and friends of the individual."

The fire was struck at about 9:42 a.m.

"Thanks to their efforts, other units in the building sustained minimal damage, allowing residents to return to their homes," Minar said.

BC Emergency Health Services were also on scene to provide support.

Roads in the area around Victoria Avenue and Cook Street were closed to traffic as a result.