Possible ‘improvised explosive’ at Surrey hospital a hoax, say RCMP

Surrey RCMP said a possible “improvised explosive” found at Surrey Memorial Hospital on Saturday was a hoax.

Police said the device was reported by a hospital security guard just before noon, prompting the evacuation of a portion of the hospital near the emergency department.

The Surrey RCMP explosives disposal unit was deployed, and Mounties said Sunday the team had determined it was not dangerous, but was designed to look like a device.

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The item appeared to be made of matches, string and dirt, police said.

Officers cleared the scene around 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, according to RCMP.

Police have a person of interest in mind, but no suspect and have made no arrests.

Officers will be reviewing video footage from the hospital police said.

Investigators said mental health issues may have been a factor, but have ruled out any connection to Saturday’s anti-vaccine mandate protests.

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