Explosion rocks Newfoundland Distillery
Two people injured, extensive damage to building
An explosion Friday caused major damage to the Newfoundland Distillery Co. building in Clarke’s Beach.
At approximately 10:15 a.m. Friday, the RCMP responded to a call that there had been an explosion at the distillery, leading to the closure of several roads in the area – a precaution Cpl. Jolene Garland says was taken to ensure the area stayed as safe as possible, adding that the explosion had turned into a fire shortly after.
Garland told media on the scene that two people suffered injuries as a result of the explosion, one of whom had minor injuries that were treated onsite. The other person was more seriously hurt and was taken to the Health Sciences Centre in St. John’s.
The reason for the explosion is not yet confirmed. Garland said there is an investigation underway by RCMP.
“There is extensive structural damage to the building,” Garland added, noting that it was too early to say whether or not the distillery will be able to reopen in 2018.
Officials with Occupational Health and Safety were also present Friday. The Bay de Grave Volunteer Fire Department was assisted by Bay Roberts firefighters.
Traffic was temporarily kept off the Conception Bay Highway while emergency responders were on scene, and work to construct climbing lanes on Veterans Memorial Highway was suspended to help reduce traffic congestion.