George Weston Limited, the company that owns Shoppers Drug Mart is suing the City of Thompson in relation to the 2023 blaze that destroyed their local store.

The lawsuit was filed with Manitoba Court of King's Bench last Thursday.

On March 9, 2023, Thompson Fire and Emergency Services crews were first called to a fire around 1:50 a.m. and again at 5 a.m. following a reignition of the first fire after firefighters left the scene.

Claims by the company allege the fire service failed to take steps to ensure the first fire was completely extinguished before leaving the scene; failed to put in place an adequate fire watch; and failed to properly monitor the status of the fires, resulting in the total loss of the store.

The lawsuit claims the city breached its duty of care, and as a result the company is entitled to be compensated for unspecified loss, damages and expenses related to the fire.

None of the allegations in the lawsuit have been tested in court. No statements of defence have been filed.

The City of Thompson has no comment as the matter is before the court.