Saskatoon man charged in explosion outside court building

Saskatoon police have made an arrest following an explosion outside the provincial court building last Wednesday.

According to police, an improvised explosive device went off at the entrance of Kilborn Place, on the corner of 19th Street and 3rd Avenue South, just after 11 p.m. March 29.

Rodney James Wilkie, 44, from Saskatoon, is facing several charges for his alleged involvement.

The charges include intent to cause an explosion to cause serious bodily harm or death or property damage, recklessly cause damage by explosion, threats to cause damage and two counts of obstructing justice.

Wilkie was remanded into custody following his first hearing at Saskatoon Provincial Court Monday morning.

Shortly after his appearance, police held a news conference to update their investigation.

“Very pleased that we were able to bring this investigation to the arrest stage so quickly,” said Insp. Randy Huisman.

“It was the result of a great deal of team work, an aggressive investigation and quick thinking on the part of members of the SPS.”

Police said the focus of the investigation changed after police received a threatening phone call on March 30, the day after the explosion.

“A man stated he would ‘finish the job’ at the court house,” said Huisman, adding at which time more resources were deployed to the case.

Huisman said after reviewing video surveillance, witness accounts and physical evidence, police executed searches at two residences in the 1800 block of Kilburn Avenue and the 3800 block of Fairlight Drive. A vehicle was also searched.

The inspector noted the investigation is continuing and further charges could be possible.

Police stated they do not believe there is any threat to the public, but are asking people to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity.

Wilkie is expected next in court for a bail hearing Wednesday.