On April 26, 2012, just after 2pm, Portage la Prairie RCMP as well as local emergency services were dispatched to the scene of a grass fire at a rural residence south east of the City of Portage la Prairie.
Initial investigation indicates that the property owner, a 78-year-old man, had attempted to control a grass fire that had spread to a shed on his property. Firefighters were able to extinguish the blaze and the man was located deceased inside. Police say that an autopsy has been scheduled.
The Manitoba Office of the Fire Commissioner is assisting with the investigation.
With the dry conditions this spring there have been a large number of grass fires in the province. The RCMP would like to remind the public of the danger of grass fires and the threat they pose to life and property.
Police continue to investigate.
