By Charles Lefebvre

RCMP confirm one killed following explosion in Sherwood Park

Nov 7, 2018 | 2:58 PM

SHERWOOD PARK, AB — RCMP have confirmed a 21-year-old man has died following an explosion in the Strathcona Community Centre in Sherwood Park.

During a news conference Wednesday afternoon, RCMP revealed more details about an incident Tuesday evening that caused buildings to be evacuated and nearby schools to be closed the next day. Officers confirmed there were two explosions in the parkade of the building.

Officers were called to a report of a fire in the Community Centre at approximately 6:30 last night. Further investigation revealed an explosion in the parkade occurred prior to the response, and police secured the area and evacuated nearby buildings. A suspect male was located in a vehicle at the parkade, and was taken to hospital, where he later died from his injuries.

Police say the man’s injuries were not related to police interaction. The man’s name will not be released.

The Emergency Response Team and the Explosive Disposal Unit were called in to assist. RCMP say a second explosion occurred in the parkade while officers were in close proximity. Nobody was injured.

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The cause and origin of the explosions are under investigation. During the news conference, RCMP would not say where exactly the explosions were set off.

The Explosive Disposal Unit remains on scene to secure the area and ensure there are no other potential threats and determine the cause of the explosion.

The investigation into the incident is ongoing. Police say they are not looking for other suspects and do not believe there is any further danger to the public.