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Bear spray accident causes Edmonton Airport evacuation

Edmonton International Airport's eight-storey Central Tower. Edmonton International Airport, Credit

A man learned a painful lesson Saturday night when it comes to taking mysterious cans out of waste receptacles.

RCMP were called to a waiting area at the Edmonton International Airport around 8:30 p.m. after reports of a contaminant in the air. They soon discovered a man exiting a washroom, suffering the effects of bear spray exposure.

Investigators determined the man found a can of bear spray in liquids disposal receptacle at the check-in area. Not realizing what it was, he took a seat in a waiting area. Eventually, curiosity got the better of him and he released some of the spray onto himself, contaminating the air.

A subsequent interview with the man, and review of surveillance footage, revealed the incident to be an accident.

The man, a child, and three other adults were treated for exposure to bear spray. Airport operations were slightly disrupted as the contaminated area was evacuated.

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At this time, investigators do not believe this was a criminal act and do not plan to lay charges.

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