PRINCE GEORGE—One person has died as a result of the explosion which destroyed Lakeland Mill at approximately 9:45 p.m. on Monday night.

Northern Health confirmed 24 patients were treated following the explosion and fire at the mill, located near River Road.

Three patients were airlifted to Vancouver for treatment, while another was sent by air ambulance to Edmonton. Six patients remain at the University Hospital of Northern B.C. in serious condition.

The remaining 13 patients were treated and released.

According to information released by the Sinclair Group Forest Products, which owns the mill, there were a total of 44 employees working Monday night when the explosion happened.

Of those employees, 24 were working in the sawmill at the time of the explosion.

"We're devastated by the news of this incident and our thoughts are with our employees and their families," Sinclair Group president Greg Stewart said in a written statement. "We will not speculate on the cause of the incident at Lakeland Mills until the proper authorities have completed their investigation. All of our attention right now is focused on ensuring our employees and their families receive the care they need."

No further details were available as of press time.