Man in custody after explosion in suspected drug lab

UPDATE Nov. 6, 2018: Police say the unit containing the apparent drug lab has been cleared of harmful material and neighbouring residents have been allowed to return home.

New Westminster police say one man is in custody after an explosion Sunday at an apparent illegal drug lablocated in a low-riseapartment building.

The entire building at 201 CarnarvonSt. wasevacuated while hazmat crews determined whichsubstances they were dealing with.

"Initial observations of the suite are that it is a clandestine lab," said Sgt. Jeff Scott."The importance of this is that we take it slowly and methodically so there's no risk to the public or first responders while we are dismantlingit."

Scott said the suspect was attempting to leave the building and was unco-operative when first responders arrived on the scene.