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Firearm threat in Duncan leads to quick police response

Man taken to hospital without incident
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Police respond to threats with a firearm. (File photo)

One man was apprehended under the Mental Health Act and transported to hospital after threatening to use a firearm against police and himself on July 19.

North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP received the call at 6:26 p.m. that day.

This threat prompted an immediate response from all on-duty front line officers in order to protect public safety.

Due to the severity and credibility of the threat and the allegation of a firearm, police used all necessary safety precautions, including hard body armour, carbines, and road blocks.

The man left his original location while police were en route, and patrols were done on foot and in vehicles throughout areas where he was suspected to be.

He was located by police near the Black Bridge at 100 Cowichan Way in Duncan.

Police negotiated with the man, who was in the water at the time, and he eventually returned to the shore and was apprehended without incident.

He did not have a firearm when he was located.

“We are thankful that this situation ended with no harm to anyone involved,” said Watch Commander Cpl. Kiel Pharis.

“Police responded with public safety in mind and we appreciated cooperation from the public during the dynamic incident.”

Police are not considering charges at this time.