Use of an explosive device has been ruled out after a man was taken to hospital with burns to his face, hands and feet following a vehicle fire in Pitt Meadows late Tuesday.
Just before 9 p.m., Pitt Meadows firefighters responded to multiple reports of a fully involved vehicle fire in the 12100-block 191B Street, in front of an apartment building.
Multiple witnesses reported to firefighters that a man walked up the white SUV and opened the door, when it suddenly “exploded in fire,” according to reports.
The man was found upstairs in his apartment with burns to his face, hands and feet and was transported to hospital.
The Ridge Meadows RCMP have ruled out the use of any explosive devices.
“As a result of witness accounts and assistance from the RCMP Explosive Disposal Unit, the police have ruled out any possibility of an explosive device being the cause of the fire,” Sgt, Brenda Gresiuk said.
“It is not uncommon for airbags to explode because of the heat from the fire, which may explain the loud bangs heard at the time of the incident.
She said police are still investigating what caused the fire.
“At this point, it doesn’t appear to be anything criminal in nature, but it is still under investigation,” said Gresiuk.
Assistant fire chief Mike Larsson said firefighters put out the blaze fairly quickly.
“One person with minor injuries went to hospital and was released pretty quickly thereafter,” Larsson added.
Firefighters turned the scene over to RCMP at about 10 p.m. RCMP called in additional resources to cordon off the scene, and placed pylons to mark evidence on the grass nearby.
There was notably little damage to the engine compartment of the vehicle, but the passenger compartment was charred.
