Niagara police investigating ‘explosion sound’ in Welland

Niagara police say a loud boom prompted numerous calls following an “explosion sound” that spanned an area of seven kilometres in Welland.

Reports indicate that shortly after 9 p.m. Wednesday, several people phoned police to report that they had heard an explosion.

Police initially investigated an area surrounding Burgar Park.

When officers arrived, there was no sign of a fire or evidence of an explosion.

Police later located several people near Memorial Park with footage of the event.

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The video presented to officers showed a red and orange flash followed by what authorities describe as a “boom or explosion sound” at 9:10 p.m.

Early investigations have been unable to determine the cause of the noise.

Officials at Welland Hydro and Welland Fire Services were also unable to determine the source of the sound.

One theory put forward by police is that at the time of the sound, a low weather ceiling and heavy fog blanketed the area — which can increase the effect of loud noises, such as fireworks.

The investigation remains ongoing, and anyone with information about this incident should contact Welland police by calling 905-688-4111.