Police are investigating after a power outage in downtown Calgary was caused by suspected copper wire theft

Enmax and first responders dealt with a major power outage in downtown Calgary on Tuesday night.

This is due to what the police believe is an attempt to steal a copper wire.

Shortly after 8 p.m., firefighters responded to a report of smoke in an underground utility area near 9th Street between 7th and 8th avenues.

Power was out in an area covering about five blocks.

Police provided traffic control at several intersections in the city center where traffic lights were turned off.

Enmax expected repairs will take several hours.

Initially, police were concerned that the thief might have been injured or killed in the incident, but no one was found at the scene and they are now continuing to investigate it as a copper wire theft.

They would like any information about this incident and can be reached at 403-266-1234.