The mayor of Fort St. John is urging for additional provincial police resources to address a recent increase in gun violence near local schools in northeastern B.C. This request follows what authorities believe was a third targeted shooting at a residence in the city on Friday night. Details on the incidents remain limited, and the suspects have yet to be identified.
Mayor Lilia Hansen is advocating for the deployment of B.C.’s gang task force to help curb the violence in the city. Expressing her concern, Hansen emphasized the need for a more robust law enforcement presence to address the escalating situation. The RCMP is actively investigating the series of shootings that began on July 22, with the recent incident marking a troubling development in the community.
Sgt. Jaime Moffat reassured the public that the RCMP is prioritizing the investigation, with a focus on apprehending the suspects and preventing further violent acts. The serious crime and street enforcement units are collaborating with frontline officers to identify and apprehend those responsible for the shootings.
Residents living near the scenes of the shootings have expressed shock and worry over the sudden surge in violence, particularly due to the proximity of the incidents to local schools. Thomas Whitton, a resident and father of four, highlighted the alarming nature of the violence occurring in such close proximity to families and children. Concerns are heightened as the new school year approaches, with residents emphasizing the importance of authorities having the necessary resources to address the situation effectively.
Community members are calling for enhanced efforts to hold perpetrators accountable and ensure the safety of residents, especially as students prepare to return to school in the coming weeks. The local board of education for School District 60 echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need for vigilance and proactive measures to address the escalating violence in the city.
