UPDATED: School closed and Slocan City locked down as hunt for gunman continues
By Kyra Hoggan
The search for a potentially unstable gunman in Slocan City has one school evacuated and residents asked to remain indoors, possibly well into tomorrow.
RCMP Const. Kris Clark said these measures will both remain in effect until such time as the suspect is in custody.
“On Oct. 9, at 12:21 pm, the Slocan/New Denver RCMP responded to a dispute between two individuals on Slocan West Road near Gravel Pit Road,” he explained. “While on scene, a male suspect allegedly fired upon police with a long rifle before retreating into the surrounding forest. The suspect is believed to be armed with multiple firearms. No members of the public nor RCMP officers have been injured. Additional resources including air support and the Southeast District Emergency Response Team (including members from across the province as well as Police Service Dogs) have been deployed to the scene in order to apprehend the suspect quickly and safely.”
Clark said he couldn’t specify, at this time, whether the suspect fired one or more shots, nor whether police returned fire. He did say, though, that the gunman didn’t appear to be threatening members of the public – the larger concern is the danger presented any time firearms are being used within the boundaries of municipality.
“Due to the nature of the offence and the risk to public safety, police are asking the residents within the village of Slocan to remain indoors until further notice. A local school and daycare were initially locked down but have since been evacuated for the safety of the children.”
He said his understanding is that Highway 6 is now open, but people are being asked to stay away from Slocan City. They are also asked to use great care and discretion in posting on social media.
“As this is an unfolding event with an alleged armed suspect, we are asking that the movements and locations of responding officers not be divulged through social media. To do so may jeopardize police and public safety.
“Anyone with specific information that can assist in locating the suspect are asked to call 9-1-1. We commit to update when we have further information to provide.”
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Residents are being asked to stay far away from a dangerous situation that continues to evolve in Slocan City, according to RCMP Sgt. Darryl Little – but little information is being released at this time.
“The Slocan Lake RCMP are currently involved in a incident involving a firearm near Slocan City,” Little said.
“The RCMP are asking for the public’s assistance to remain away from the area at this time. No injuries have been reported to anyone at this time. “
Castlegar RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Debbie Postnikoff said more information will be released as soon as possible, but otherwise cautioned that people trying to enter the area will likely be diverted.
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