Media Release, August 14, 4:47pm: NPD and RCMP safely dispose of improvised explosive device
The Nelson Police Department, with the RCMP Explosives Disposal Unit (EDU) attended a scene near the intersection of Douglas and Pine Streets in Nelson responding to a report of a suspected improvised explosive device (IED). The device was safely disposed of without injury or damage to property.
On August 12, 2025, at approximately 8:00 p.m., the Nelson Police Department received a report concerning a suspected improvised explosive device (IED). A local youth, while in the Trail area, discovered what appeared to be a “pipe bomb.” The youth transported the device to his residence in Nelson, where his parents promptly contacted police and secured the item in a locked storage shed. The Nelson Police Department immediately liaised with the RCMP Explosives Disposal Unit (EDU). Following consultation, the RCMP advised they would attend to safely secure and dispose of the device. The Nelson Police Department notified the Trail RCMP regarding the IED that was located within their jurisdiction and provided GPS coordinates for follow-up action.
On August 13, 2025, the RCMP EDU attended the scene and safely disposed of the IED. EDU advised that the device was capable of causing death and/or grievous bodily harm and spreading shrapnel approximately 50 feet.
As of this writing, this matter remains under investigation.
The Nelson Police Department would like to thank the public for adhering to safety advisories and avoiding the area while police were on the scene.
For media enquires related to the RCMP EDU, please contact the RCMP at 778-290-2929. For additional information, please contact the Nelson Police Department at 250-354-3919.
UPDATE August 13, 3:09pm: The area near Douglas St and Pine St is safe to return.
Original notice August 13, 2:15pm: There is a police incident near Pine St and Douglas St and at the moment the Nelson Police Department is requesting that the public avoid the area. A media release will follow shortly and this post will be updated as more information becomes available.