BC RCMP nab suspects following extortion, firearms complaint in Fort Saint James

A Remembrance Day incident in Fort Saint James has led to a trio of arrests.

Investigators received information about threats of extortion and violence towards a local resident and about a possible firearm in the suspect’s possession.

“Based on the information provided to our investigators, the decision was made to engage the North District Emergency Response Team, with additional support provided by the Police Dog Services unit and RCMP Air Services. The specialized training these units receive helps to ensure the safety of the public and police officers during investigations where violence and weapons are suspected to be involved,” stated Corporal Jennifer Cooper, BC RCMP spokesperson for Northern B.C.

Police officers located the suspect in a vehicle near the intersection of Eagle Drive and Garvie Road.

When a traffic stop was initiated with the vehicle, the driver fled from police. A pursuit was authorized and the vehicle was followed to the 2700-block of Lind Lake Pit Road, where it stopped and two people fled on foot.

A third suspect remained in the vehicle and was arrested. A subsequent search revealed two firearms, which were seized by officers.

“Pursuits are only declared after a risk assessment is conducted and it is determined that the risks associated to a pursuit are significantly outweighed by the risks the suspects themselves pose to the public. Additionally, a continuous risk assessment is conducted during a police pursuit, to ensure that the identified risk factors continue to support its continuation,” said Corporal Cooper.

Police officers located the two fleeing suspects a short distance away and placed them in police custody until they can attend court.

The file remains under investigation.

Something going on in the Nechako Valley area you think people should know about?
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Brendan Pawliw
Brendan Pawliw
Since moving to Prince George in 2015, Brendan has covered local sports including the WHL’s Prince George Cougars, Prince George Spruce Kings, UNBC Timberwolves, Cariboo Cougars AAA, and Northern Capitals U18 female hockey teams. Career highlights include play-by-play during the Spruce Kings' BCHL championship runs in 2018 and 2019, including the Doyle Cup win. He also covered the 2019 National Junior A Championship, the 2017 Telus Cup, the 2022 World Women’s Curling Championship, and the 2022 BC Summer Games. Brendan is the news voice on 94.3 The Goat and Country 97 FM, reporting on crime, real estate, labour, and environmental issues. Outside of work, he officiates box lacrosse and fastball, sits on the Prince George Sports Hall of Fame board, and co-hosts the Hockey North podcast.

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