Copper pipe theft cause of Aug. 22 explosion downtown, say RCMP

Copper pipe theft caused the August 22 explosion in downtown Prince George which injured three people and completely destroyed at Dominion Street and Fourth Avenue, according to RCMP

The investigation so far has determined that the building was secured in the early evening on August 21, but was broken into over the course of the night by several people. Fire investigators have further determined there is evidence of copper pipe theft, which resulted in damage to at least one natural gas line.

The source of the ignition that created the explosion was due to the activities of one of the unauthorized persons within the building, who was unaware at the time of the buildup of natural gas inside the structure.

“This investigation is incredibly complex and it will take time before investigators can make any further determinations, but we felt an update into the status of the investigation was necessary as so many people in our city were affected by the events of that morning,” said Cpl. Jennifer Cooper, Media Relations Officer for the Prince George RCMP.

The investigation remains ongoing.