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RCMP haven’t yet made arrest after shooting at Nanaimo homeless encampment

Police asking for people with information to come forward
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Police in Nanaimo are still looking for the suspect of a shooting that sent a man to hospital with serious injuries Sunday, March 12. (News Bulletin file photo)

The Nanaimo RCMP continues to investigate a shooting near a homeless encampment that sent a man to hospital with serious injuries.

According to a Nanaimo RCMP press release, no arrests have been made in the incident that occurred at about 3:30 p.m. Sunday, March 12, near Barsby Avenue and Mill Street. Two arrests that were made that afternoon, but both were for outstanding warrants unrelated to the shooting.

Since the incident, investigators have received videos provided by businesses, witnesses, and motor vehicle dash cams. Numerous witness statements have also been taken and investigators have consulted with neighbouring police jurisdictions and other agencies.

“Investigators are confident that they are moving forward and truly appreciate the co-operation and information that has been provided by general public,” said reserve Const. Gary O’Brien, Nanaimo RCMP spokesperson, in the press release. “Investigators are also aware that there are people in the community who may have information about the incident but for whatever reason, they have not come forward. We need to hear from them.”

The man who was shot remains in hospital and there is no timeline as to when he will be released.

RELATED: Safety advocates speak out after shooting in Nanaimo

“The Nanaimo RCMP remains committed to ensuring the safety of all its citizens, and we will work with individuals, when lawful to do so, to solve crime and retrieving suspected stolen property,” O’Brien said.

Nanaimo RCMP shared several crime prevention tips to help police in retrieve stolen property. People are encouraged to take photos of all valuables and engrave all electronics, tools and valuables with an identifying number. Bicycles should be registered at www.project529.com.

All thefts should be reported first to the police and then to the neighbourhood Block Watch chapter, if one is available.

RCMP advise against confronting people suspected of stealing property. Instead, police should be called immediately. Citizens who choose to follow theft suspects are cautioned to do so from a safe distance and use a cell phone to update police about location, what the suspect is wearing and any other useful details.

“Remember, at the end of the day, nothing is more valuable than your safety and well-being,” O’Brien said.

Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to call the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345.

READ ALSO: Spending money isn’t enough to curb crime, say speakers at safety rally in Nanaimo


chris.bush@nanaimobulletin.com

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