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A Surrey pub and neighbouring liquor store has been gutted by an overnight fire that officials are describing as suspicious.

More than 20 firefighters were called to Jack’s Public House at 152nd Street and Fraser Highway around 2:45 Thursday morning, but were unable to save the building.

WATCH: Neetu Garcha reports as fire destroys Jack’s Public House in Surrey

2:00 Fire destroys Jack’s Public House in Surrey Fire destroys Jack’s Public House in Surrey

According to the Surrey RCMP, witnesses reported seeing someone run out of the building shortly after an explosion inside.

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The Surrey RCMP’s police dog service attended but was unable to track the suspect down.

An hour later a 36-year-old man with life-threatening injuries consistent with a fire called 911 from Guildford, and was rushed to hospital.

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When crews arrived the building was completely engulfed, and the roof had collapsed. Crews were only able to fight the fire from the exterior.

Surrey RCMP is now working with fire investigators on what is being looked at as a potential case of arson.

JAK’s Beer Wine and Spirits released a statement thanking first responders.

“We would like to express our sincere gratitude to the Surrey Fire Department for their quick response to the fire affecting the building that JAK’S Beer Wine & Spirits shares with its neighbour, Jack’s Public House in Surrey,” said Tim Dumas, director of marketing and sales.

“As it’s still early in the investigation, we don’t have any additional information but will support the important work investigators are doing to determine the cause of this fire.”

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Traffic was disrupted in the area for the morning rush hour.