Saanich Police responded to a suspicious looking item that had been described as a possible “pipe bomb” at approximately 7 p.m. on Saturday, November 9, 2013.
An area resident, who had been walking in the area, observed the item on the shoulder of the Marigold Road, near the parking lot of Hyacinth Park. The resident immediately contacted police.
Responding police members observed what appeared to be a bottle that had been filled with an unknown substance. The device had been wrapped in tape and clear cellophane wrap, and had a wick that was visible. Based on their observations, it was determined that the device appeared to be an improvised explosive device (IED) and that it could potentially pose a hazard to the public and first responders if it were to be handled.
A member from Saanich Police, who has received specialised training to respond to IED’s was called to the scene. After a brief assessment, the RCMP “E” Division Explosive Disposal Unit was contacted to provide further assistance.
Marigold Road between Violet and Daffodil Avenue was closed to vehicle traffic, and the area was cordoned off to prevent any pedestrians from entering the area. Residences in the immediate area were notified, and the occupants were requested to remain in the rear portion of their homes.
At approximately 2 a.m. on Sunday morning, the RCMP EOD Team attended the scene to render assistance. Saanich Police, using specialised equipment from the RCMP EDU, detonated the device, rendering it safe.
The device was seized from the scene for forensic examination. It is not known what the device had been filled with.
Investigation has revealed that the device may have been at that location for a number of days and may have been dropped by a pedestrian or from a vehicle. There are no known suspects at this time, and the file remains under investigation.
Anyone that may have information concerning the “pipe bomb” or its origin are asked to contact the Saanich Police at 250-475-4321 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
File 2013-22980
Sgt. Steve Eassie #158