Train traffic was disrupted and police closed Marion Street in Thames Centre for several hours because of a smoky structure fire.

Middlesex OPP, Thames Centre Fire crews and London-Middlesex EMS responded to the fire around 3:05 p.m. on Wednesday.

The fire appears to have started in the double garage of a residence. The homeowner had reportedly stepped out for a short time when the fire broke out, and no one else was home at the time.

Traffic along a CN Rail line that runs through the town was shut down because of its proximity to the fire and concerns about a propane tank on the property.

Two VIA Rail trains and four CN Rail freight trains were stopped while firefighters battled the blaze.

Police also closed Marion Street between Hamilton Crescent and Ron Allen Drive.

The roadway was expected to remain closed until about 8 p.m. at the latest and people were being asked to avoid the area.

The cause of the fire has not been determined and the investigation continues. 

There were no injuries.