A van exploded outside Hotel Joronjälki in Joroinen on Saturday afternoon. Two people died in the blast near the vehicle.
Police confirmed the victims were not inside the exploding van but standing close by. They suffered fatal trauma from the explosion's impact.
Lead investigator Toni Reinikainen stated authorities are currently treating the case as an accident. He noted this classification could change as the investigation progresses.
Reinikainen dismissed rumors about a possible third victim. No evidence supports those claims, he said.
The hotel property remained cordoned off overnight but should return to owner control today. Rescue services provided temporary accommodation for hotel residents through North Savo welfare district.
The explosion occurred at 12:20 PM local time with such force that residents felt it a kilometer away. It caused extensive damage to the hotel building and nearby vehicles.
Hotel entrepreneur Auvo Puurtinen estimated damages around €200,000. The blast shattered windows and damaged doors that rescue crews had forced open.
A fire also broke out in the entrance canopy but did not spread to the main hotel building.
This incident highlights the vulnerability of rural hospitality businesses to sudden crises. The remote location likely complicated emergency response efforts.