UPDATED 28/8: Fire and Rescue media release - 400 block of Dominion Street

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Media Releases
Aerial shot of a plume of smoke rising from a downtown building. Smoke fills the air.

 

Update 28 August 11am:

  • Fire crew staff are no longer on site following the explosion last week.
  • The section of Dominion Street between 4th and 5th Avenue remains closed to vehicles and pedestrians while the RCMP continue their investigation. The cause is still unknown while the investigation is ongoing.
  • Total estimated damages from the explosion currently are being assessed.
  • In total there were nine buildings surrounding the explosion site that had their windows blown out. UNBC have been in and assessed the damage to the Wood Innovation Research Laboratory building, which is extensive. More than 50 businesses in the area were impacted from residual damage as a result of this explosion.
  • Deputy Fire chief, Clayton Sheen, wants to thank his crews, the other teams at the City and the RCMP for their collaboration and support during a the complex response.

“All the divisions worked together last week on what was a larger than normal fire event. We appreciate the hard work of our crews and the RCMP and other responders," Deputy chief Sheen said. "On behalf of everyone at the City we’re also sending our best wishes to our fellow staff member Victoria on a speedy recovery.”

Update 3:30pm:

Fire crews remain on site working on the continued clean up and investigation, following this morning’s explosion on Dominion Street.

  • The blaze was fully extinguished by 2:30pm.
  • Buildings around the explosion site have experienced damage.
  • The roads will remain closed while this clean up and investigation takes place.
  • The fire is being treated as suspicious and the RCMP are asking for anyone with any video footage of the incident to please call the non-emergency line at 250-561-3300 to speak with investigators.
  • Estimated damage costs are unknown at this time.

Original release: On August 22, 2023, at 07:01 hours, Prince George Fire Rescue responded to a reported explosion on the 400 block of Dominion Street.

  • Four halls responded to the call.
  • Fire crews are currently on scene working.
  • The public is requested to stay clear of the area to allow emergency crews to work.
  • Further information will be released as fire crews continue to contain the fire.

View video footage of fire crews working to contain the fire.