Firearms were seized after a group of men allegedly threatened a firefighter who is in the local area to help fight the wildfires.
Williams Lake RCMP recieved the report just after 10am on Tuesday.
“In speaking with this fireman, RCMP learned that while working in an area of Springfield Road the day prior (July 17th) a local resident had allegedly threatened to kill firefighters, if they continued to conduct back burning in the area. With this male, was a group of other males, one of whom was alleged to have been carrying a handgun on his hip,” said Media Relations Officer Coroporal Janelle Shoihet.
Williams Lake RCMP with assistance from officers from the BC Wildfire deployment teams, conducted investigative follow ups and identified and located the 44 year old male, who is alleged to have threatened the fireman. In speaking with RCMP he acknowledged the statements were made in a time of extreme stress At this time, charges against this male are not being considered, however to mitigate the possible risk, his firearm has been temporarily seized.
The 57 year old man, who was alleged to have been wearing the handgun, was also located and arrested, when he was found to be in possession of a loaded, insecure handgun, and 6 rifles in his vehicle. His firearms have been seized and he has since been released, with a court appearance scheduled in early November.
“We understand that tensions are running high, but we have to continue to pull together as a community to fight the fires in whatever way we can,” said Williams Lake RCMP Inspector Jeff Pelley. “The firemen and women have a job to do, as do we, we ask that continue to be patient as we work together with all of our partners to make your community a safe place to return to.”
(Files from BC RCMP)
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