The mayor of Fort St. John is urging for increased provincial police support to address a rise in gun violence near local schools in northeastern B.C. The appeal follows what authorities suspect was a third targeted shooting at a residence in the city on Friday night. Specific details are limited, and the perpetrators remain unidentified. Mayor Lilia Hansen is advocating for the involvement of B.C.’s gang task force to quell the violence in the area.
Expressing deep concern, Hansen emphasized the urgency of halting the escalating violence, stating, “One shooting is tragic, two is alarming, and three demands immediate action.” She stressed the necessity for a more robust police presence to ensure community safety.
Law enforcement officials are actively investigating the series of shootings that commenced on July 22, with at least one individual sustaining injuries and subsequently facing charges. While the recent shooting on Friday has not been confirmed to have caused injuries by the police or emergency services, local residents reported witnessing at least one person being transported to the hospital by ambulance, with suspicions of additional casualties.
Sgt. Jaime Moffat highlighted that the detachment is prioritizing the apprehension of suspects through collaborative efforts between the serious crime and street enforcement units alongside frontline officers. Moffat reassured the public that significant resources are being allocated to identify the culprits and prevent further violent incidents.
Concerns are mounting among residents living near the site of the latest shooting as the new school year approaches. Each shooting incident occurred in close proximity to local elementary and middle schools, eliciting surprise and unease within the community. Thomas Whitton, a resident and father of four, expressed shock over the recent surge in violence near residential areas where children reside.
Whitton recounted that three of his children had passed by the targeted home shortly before the shooting incident unfolded around 10 p.m. The visible bullet holes in the residence’s front door served as a stark reminder of the potential danger faced by innocent individuals. He emphasized the need for authorities to receive adequate resources to swiftly apprehend and detain those responsible for the violence.
As the community anticipates the school year’s commencement, Helen Gilbert, chair of the local board of education for School District 60, echoed concerns regarding the safety implications of the escalating violence. The potential risk of harm to innocent bystanders due to drive-by shootings remains a significant worry for the district’s safety team as they prepare for the upcoming academic year.