Incident Overview

In a dramatic incident early Sunday morning, a vehicle collided with a gas station east of Edmonton, igniting a massive explosion and subsequent fire that leveled the entire structure.

Emergency Response

Strathcona County Emergency Services received an emergency call shortly after 8 a.m., reporting that a vehicle had struck the natural gas meter at the Tempo gas station located in Ardrossan, at the intersection of Highway 16 and Range Road 223.

Upon arrival, emergency crews swiftly evacuated the building and initiated protocols to ensure public safety. They awaited the arrival of Atco Gas technicians, who were tasked with isolating the gas supply to the facility.

Explosion and Fire

Around 8:30 a.m., a powerful explosion rocked the area, sending plumes of smoke and flames into the sky. “Power has been isolated, and Atco Gas has responded and is digging to isolate natural gas to the building,” authorities reported. Despite efforts to control the fire, it continued to be exacerbated by gas feeding the flames. The building, which housed the Country Boyz Food Store and Country Roads Restaurant, was deemed a “complete loss” by officials.

No Injuries Reported

Remarkably, no injuries were reported during this alarming incident, a stroke of luck considering the potential danger involved in such a catastrophic event.

Public Safety Message

Residents in the vicinity were urged to remain alert and avoid the area as emergency responders worked diligently to manage the fire and ensure that natural gas was safely contained.

Ongoing Investigation

As investigations continue, authorities are looking into the circumstances surrounding the crash. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential hazards associated with gas stations and the importance of immediate emergency response.

Stay Updated

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story, as more details are expected to emerge.