Video UPDATE: First responders respond to explosion report near East Bypass Road, 78th Street

UPDATE (Oct. 13 – 9:50 a.m.): The story has been changed to include information from the Fort St. John Fire Department.

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — Two people were injured after a hazardous substance ignited in an industrial area off of East Bypass Road and 78th Street Thursday evening, said the Fort St. John Fire Department.

Firefighters responded to a report of an explosion on the 9000 block of 78th Street at around 7:50 p.m. Deputy Fire Chief Daniel Simpson says five firefighters were deployed once the call came in and were at the scene within four minutes.

The first responders arrived at the scene to what “appeared to be a brief ignition of a hazardous substance” and found two people “affected by the incident,” according to Simpson.

Multiple residents took to social media Thursday evening to voice concerns after hearing a loud bang, believing an explosion may have happened. Energeticcity.ca has received footage from a resident showing an explosion in the area.

However, officials haven’t confirmed if an explosion took place or not.

After the initial fire crew arrived, an additional five apparatus, with three firefighters, were called in to provide further support.

“Fort St. John firefighters immediately mitigated the hazard, ensuring the safety of all involved, and provided essential medical care to the injured patients,” said Simpson.

BCAS arrived shortly after and took over primary care of the patients, he added. The extent of the people’s injuries and whether they were transported to a hospital is unknown.

Simpson said the fire department cannot confirm any specific details, including whether there was an explosion at the scene. 

The RCMP does not believe the incident is criminal in nature, and WorkSafe BC is now investigating.

This is a developing story and will be updated when more information is received from emergency officials.