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CHARLOTTETOWN, P.E.I. —

Elections P.E.I. has reopened the only polling station in Stratford-Keppoch, after a bomb threat forced its evacuation and closure earlier this afternoon.

Authorities arrived on the scene shortly after the threat was reported at the Assumption Parish Centre on Stratford Road around 1 p.m.

Queens District RCMP media liaison Sgt. Leanne Butler said she could not release many details about the threat as an investigation was ongoing. She confirmed that the polling station was swept thoroughly by a police service dog trained in explosive detection.

Butler did say the threat did not appear to be directed at any specific political party.

"Even though the polls is open and the area is cleared, we are continuing with the investigation," Butler said.

“Voting was suspended until it is deemed safe to go back in,” said Paul Alan, manager of operations and communications for Elections P.E.I., earlier in the afternoon.

Alan added that the ballots and ballot boxes have been secured inside the building.

Due to the stoppage, Elections P.E.I. has determined that voting hours at the polling station will be extended until 7:30 p.m. this evening for both the general election and referendum.

"Elections P.E.I. assures the integrity of the voting location was not compromised," Alan said in a media statement.

All results from districts Island-wide will be withheld by Elections P.E.I. until 7:30 p.m. At that time, all districts will release their results, while Stratford-Keppoch will begin their count and report soon afterwards.