A lower Mission Hill neighbourhood was evacuated for 10 hours Thursday while RCMP investigated a suspicious device.
Members of the RCMP Explosive Disposal Unit attended a condo in the 3700 block of 24th Avenue at 4:30 p.m. after the discovery shortly before 9 a.m.
Residences in the immediate vicinity were evacuated and the area was cordoned off to ensure safety of the public while the investigation took place. After examining the device, investigators confirmed it was not an explosive and residents returned to their homes and the area was opened up for public access by 7 p.m.
“The person discovering the device did the right thing by notifying police immediately,” Vernon North Okanagan media relations officer Const. Chris Terleski said. “Reports of any potential explosive devices must be taken seriously and all necessary precautions must be taken to ensure the safety of the public. We are very fortunate to have experts available who are trained to provide guidance and assist in dealing with suspicious devices. Thankfully, the device determined not to be an explosive and we want to express our appreciation to residents and the public for their patience and understanding as we worked to safely resolve the situation.”
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