Edmonton Police have wrapped up their investigation into a house explosion in a north Edmonton neighbourhood that killed four people. Investigators have determined one of the victims in the blast was strangled by her common-law husband before the house exploded.
"This was a very complex investigation," said Darren Eastcott, Acting EPS Supt.
On June 20th of last year, the explosion occurred at a home located at 18011-91 A Street, which land title records showed was owned by Dwayne Poirier and 47-year-old Jeanne Cathleen Heard.
Four people died in the blast. Edmonton police confirmed that three of the four people whose bodies were discovered after the blast were victims of a homicide. Poirier's death was ruled non-criminal. But Heard's death was ruled a homicide.
Police say Poirier was responsible for the death of his common-law wife Heard, who died as a result of being strangled.
Investigators have now determined that the explosion was caused by a build up of natural gas inside one of the houses. It was determined that someone had altered the natural gas line prior to the blast.
"What we know is that the house was filled up with natural gas, and in order for that to happen, you have to alter a line," said Eastcott.
Police still won't confirm reports that Heard's body was found bound and wrapped. They're also not speaking to whether Poirier took his own life on purpose or accidentally.
Two people in a neighbouring house, Craig Huber and Brad Winter, were also killed in the blast.
Residents in the area say the new details are disturbing, but some are prepared to put it all behind them.
"People are shocked but we're human, we just kind of get over it and keep moving along," said Jonathan Stewart.
Police could not determine exactly how the gas line was cut.
The explosion caused an estimated $3.5 million in damage to 40 properties.
With files from Bill Fortier
