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IQALUIT - Human remains have been found inside an Iqaluit residence that was engulfed in flames early Saturday morning.

Iqaluit RCMP and Fire Marshal’s Office are investigating a fire that consumed the insides of a duplex. Human remains were found inside. - Carolyn Sloan/NNSL photo

The Iqaluit RCMP and fire department were called to a fire at House 137B at around 7 am on Dec. 13.

Initial attempts to gain entry into the duplex were impeded by falling debris, intense heat and thick smoke.

“I was first on scene and, at that time, the conditions were not survivable,” said Chris Wilson, deputy fire chief for the Iqaluit department. “There were safety issues for our personnel.”

Firefighters gained access into the building after spending 30 minutes extinguishing the flames. By that time, the fire had decimated the inner lower level of the unit. Firefighters turned their attention to salvaging the neighbouring unit and as much of the evidence as possible.

“At that point in time, the search was more of a recovery than a rescue situation,” said Wilson. “We were committed then to maintain the structure so further investigation could go on.”

Two people were able to evacuate the residence, suffering minor smoke inhalation.

“We knew that two people had gotten out,” said RCMP Sgt. Peter Pilgrim.

After the flames were extinguished, human remains were discovered inside the residence.

The local coroner’s office is trying to determine the identity of the deceased person.

While the fire is still under investigation, RCMP said there is no clear indication of arson.