A 19-year-old man has faced numerous charges after an improvised explosive device was detonated in a mall in the York region on Wednesday.
Police say they were called to the dining room at the Upper Canada Mall, located near Yonge Street and Davis Drive, around 6:45 p.m.
When officers arrived, they found a “homemade igniter,” police said.
According to police, the device was blown up. No one was physically injured.
Investigators later learned that a suspected man had arrived at the restaurant, placed the device in a box and then fled the scene.
Shortly afterwards, the suspect was detained with the help of the dog training unit.
19-year-old Toronto resident Michael Gatdula has been charged with a number of crimes related to the incident, including arson, contempt for human life, illegal possession of explosives and use of explosives with the intent to destroy property and possessions to endanger life.
The allegations have not been proven in court and no further details have been released about the incident.
In a press release issued Thursday, investigators reminded residents that if they see anything unusual or suspicious, call the police immediately.
“All precautions must be taken when suspicious devices or packages are found,” a statement from officials said.
“Do not handle materials that may be dangerous or explosive, evacuate the area and call 9-1-1 immediately.”
Police say the investigation is ongoing and are asking anyone with information to contact them or contact Crime Stoppers anonymously.
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