The investigation into the massive explosion that destroyed a Nanaimo home earlier this week is ongoing, according to RCMP.
Now, RCMP will determine if foul play is suspected.
At approximately 8:20 p.m. on Sunday, February 27th, shockwaves shook Nanaimo as a home on Pine Street at Fitzwilliam street exploded.
See more: Massive explosion possibly caused by natural gas destroys Nanaimo home
The immediate area was closed to the public and emergency crews, Fortis BC and BC Hydro were quickly on the scene.
While the home was vacant, neighbours said the property has often been used by squatters – police do not believe there was anybody in the home at the time of the explosion. Six people in the area were treated for minor injuries after being struck by flying debris.
On Monday, February 28th, investigators from City of Nanaimo Fire and Rescue as well as Fortis BC and the Nanaimo RCMP were on scene throughout the day.
Investigators worked to methodically sift through materials from the home, to assist with determining the cause of the explosion.
Using heavy equipment, investigators were able to widen their search and examine areas that had previously not been examined, including the basement.
“At this time, in consultation with partnering agencies, the investigation has been turned over to the Nanaimo RCMP to determine if foul play was involved in the explosion,” said Constable Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP.
RCMP are asking anyone who may have seen anything suspicious on the property in the hours leading up to the explosion to contact the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at (250) 754-2345.
