A contractor has died and another was seriously injured after a fire broke out at a natural gas facility in British Columbia owned by Calgary-based Tourmaline Oil Corp.
RCMP say they were called Monday evening to reports of a possible pipeline explosion at the Gundy c-60 gas plant, located about 150 kilometres north of Fort St. John. While the cause remains under investigation, police say there is no evidence of criminality.
Emergency crews responded immediately, including four ambulances that met the company's medivan en route. One worker was transported to hospital in critical condition, and another in serious condition. One of them later died from their injuries.
According to the BC Energy Regulator, the fire began around 6 p.m. after workers struck a pipe at the site. The blaze was extinguished just after midnight, and the plant has remained shut down since then.
Tourmaline, Canada's largest natural gas producer, confirmed the fatality in a statement.
"We extend our deepest sympathies and condolences to the family, friends, and co-workers of the individuals involved," the company said. "Our top priority is the health and safety of our people, the surrounding community, and the environment."
The BC Energy Regulator, WorkSafeBC, and the RCMP are all investigating. The regulator says there is no ongoing risk to the public or environment.
Tourmaline is cooperating fully with the investigation and says the plant was undamaged but will remain offline during the inquiry.