Large flames and massive plumes of smoke filled the West End Friday evening after a fire broke out in a pair of vacant homes. 

Just before 7 p.m., fire crews were called to the 500 block of Balmoral Street, just north of Sargent Avenue. 

When crews arrived, they found one house fully engulfed in flames. The fire quickly spread to a second home. Crews launched a defensive attack, using hose lines and aerial ladders while trying to protect other neighbouring homes. 

Once conditions improved, crews were able to enter one of the houses to fight the fire. The home where the fire originated sustained significant damage and partially collapsed.  

No injuries were reported.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.