1 dead, 2 in hospital after explosion at North Saanich Marina
Cause of blast unknown but not considered suspicious
One person is dead and two are in hospital after an explosion at the North Saanich Marina on Sunday afternoon.
Emergency officials responded to reports of an explosion just before 4 p.m. PT.
Six ambulances, firefighters from North Saanich and Sidney, and vessels from the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre were dispatched to the marina, which is just south of the Swartz Bay BC Ferries terminal.
Marina officials say a fire broke out on a boat near the fuel dock and spread to other vessels.
Massive fire/explosion on the Saanich peninsula north of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/yyj?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#yyj</a> airport...visible from Mill Bay <a href="https://t.co/4SNs6dZ4On">pic.twitter.com/4SNs6dZ4On</a>
—@nshannonlRCMP Cpl. Chris Manseau said the blast happened at the fuelling dock, and a marine team and bomb disposal unit will be investigating.
He said it was difficult for emergency responders to get close to the site, given the danger of the fire.
North Saanich Fire Department officials say at this point the fire is not suspicious, but the cause is still unknown. The B.C. Coroners Service is investigating.
Two people injured remain in hospital with non-life threatening injuries.
Big fire at North Saanich Marina. <a href="https://t.co/bSHNx1T5KA">pic.twitter.com/bSHNx1T5KA</a>
—@SmittyGoWith files from Yvette Brend