Officials are investigating an early-morning fire in a lakeside community.

A man walking around a residential development in Cross Lake Thursday morning noticed something in the air.

"A security guard was conducting patrols in a residential development area when he observed smoke emanating from an older building nearby," RCMP Manitoba says in a statement.

He then immediately contacted emergency crews. Cross Lake RCMP and firefighting crews arrived, extinguishing the fire.

The older building is now facing extensive damage. Police are suspecting arson.  The Office of the Fire Commissioner and police are investigating.

Those with information are being asked to call Cross Lake RCMP at 204-676-2600, or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477. Tips can also be made online.