City responds to explosion in Riverdale

At approximately 5:30 AM this morning, the Whitehorse Fire Department was called for an explosion on Bates Crescent in Riverdale.

When crews arrived, they found one home destroyed and adjacent homes with extensive damage.

One person is deceased as a result of the explosion. Another has been transported to hospital with critical injuries.

The cause of the explosion is under investigation. However, the City is working closely with the RCMP and the Yukon Coroner’s Service to document the scene due to the size and severity of the incident.

Residents can expect to see fire personnel, along with heavy equipment, in the area over the coming days as investigators work to comb through debris and determine the cause of the explosion.

There is no risk to the public at this time but Bates Crescent will be limited to local traffic only until further notice.

We appreciate the public interest surrounding this incident but ask that residents respect the privacy of those impacted by this tragic incident.

Anyone with information who has not yet spoken with police is encouraged to reach out to the Yukon RCMP by contacting 867-667-5555.