Red Deer RCMP closed 51st Avenue (Gaetz) between 46 Street and 47 Street for several hours last night to investigate a suspicious package that a citizen had discovered and brought to the detachment.

The street closure took effect at approximately 6:30 pm and was in place until shortly after midnight.

The Explosives Device Unit (EDU) was brought in to examine the package, and non-essential staff were evacuated from the downtown RCMP detachment as a safety precaution.

City of Red Deer Fire staff also attended the scene to provide support and supplemental lighting while EDU examined the package, and RCMP members canvassed neighbouring businesses that were open at the time to advise them of this unfolding event.

EDU neutralized the device shortly after 10 pm.

At this time, it has not been determined whether or not the device was explosive, and RCMP continue to investigate.

No one was injured during this incident.

RCMP urge the public to contact police immediately if they discover a suspicious package, and not to touch it.