Reports of possible gun shots bring flood of police

Jun 30, 2020 | 10:42 AM

Reports of possible gun shots had police converging on an area of Vernon.

Witnesses say they heard what sounded like multiple gun shots in the 6900 block of Tronson Road around 5 p.m. Saturday (June 27).

“A multi-unit police response could be seen in the area as traffic was temporarily stopped on Tronson Road, as officers quickly worked to contain the area and determine the threat,” said Const. Kelly Brett, media relations officer for Vernon North Okanagan RCMP.

Brett said during a high risk incident, the public will often see officers donning extra protective gear, such as hard body armour, and arming themselves with carbine rifles.

“This is done for the protection of the officers and public until the threat can be identified and de-escalated,” she said.

Support for the unhoused

Sleeping outside for a cause: Vernon pair backs homeless outreach

9h ago

Youth Mental Health Care

VJH Foundation commits $500K for Foundry North Okanagan

13h ago

Theft of Tools, Merchandise

Police searching for suspects in theft investigation

13h ago

Brett said a public alert was not issued in this incident as police were quickly able to determine a group of males had been setting off fireworks and also had an airsoft rifle.

“The males, although apologetic for their actions, were issued a stern warning on the implications of possessing an airsoft rifle and setting off fireworks within an urban area,” said Brett.

“It is incredibly important for people to realize that airsoft weapons can look and feel very real, and pose great risk to those who have them in their possession when not in a controlled environment. Police treat every weapons complaint as high risk until determined otherwise,” Brett concluded.

by Pete McIntyre

View Comments