Homeowner Charged in Connection with Deadly House Explosion in Whitehorse a Year Ago

The homeowner of a house that exploded in Whitehorse a year ago, killing one person and injuring three others, has been charged with one count of criminal negligence causing death and three counts of criminal negligence causing bodily harm.

The charges were announced by the Yukon RCMP on Thursday, March 9, 2023. The accused, 61-year-old Gordon Petersen, is scheduled to appear in court on March 27, 2023.

The explosion occurred on March 4, 2022, at a home on the 300 block of Ogilvie Street in Whitehorse. The blast levelled the home and caused significant damage to neighbouring properties.

The victim of the explosion was identified as 59-year-old David Laboucan. He was a friend of Petersen's and was helping him with renovations on the home at the time of the blast.

The three people who were injured in the explosion were all treated in hospital for their injuries. One of the victims, a 55-year-old man, suffered serious injuries and had to be airlifted to Vancouver for treatment.

The RCMP have not released any details about the cause of the explosion. However, they have said that the investigation is ongoing.

Petersen is a well-known figure in the Whitehorse community. He is a former city councillor and has been involved in a number of local businesses.

The charges against Petersen come as a shock to many people in the community. He is well-liked and respected, and many people are struggling to understand how such a tragedy could have happened.

The trial is expected to begin in the fall of 2023.