Monday’s power outage in Lloydminster is being treated as a criminal investigation after police discovered a gunshot was the cause.
Preliminary investigation estimates $1.1 million in damages and environmental cleanup.
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At 4:40 a.m. on May 19, Lloydminster RCMP responded to a report of a power outage. RCMP now confirm it was a firearms-related incident.
The investigation determined the ATCO substation, located near 12th St. and 75 Ave., was deliberately targeted.
A firearm was discharged at the facility, intentionally striking an oil tank. The damage resulted in a significant power outage and the release of approximately 20,000 litres of oil.
Lloydminster RCMP also stated it’s aware break ins occurred at several locations during the outage. Upon investigation, there is no evidence suggesting the incidents are directly related at this time.
Lloydminster RCMP is treating this incident as a criminal investigation and is seeking the public’s assistance in acquiring dashcam or other video footage that may have captured a suspect, or suspects, in the area.
If you have any information about this incident, please contact the Lloydminster RCMP at 780-808-8300.
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