Fort St. John Faces Increased Police Response Amidst Targeted Shootings

The British Columbia Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit (CFSEU) is sending its Uniform Gang Enforcement Team to Fort St. John in response to escalating gun violence. This action comes after three targeted shootings occurred near local schools between late July and mid-August, resulting in four injuries. While one suspect has been charged, police continue to search for others involved.

Local officials, including Mayor Lilia Hansen, have expressed concern over the safety of residents, noting that stray bullets have impacted homes and vehicles unrelated to the incidents. In response to the ongoing issues, city council is considering new municipal bylaws. Councillor Trevor Bolin has proposed measures that would allow for increased fines against properties that repeatedly require emergency service responses, potentially billing owners for the cost of services used.

Additionally, Bolin is advocating for a "good neighbour" bylaw, which could impose fines on properties that become a nuisance. These proposed bylaws aim to provide local authorities with more immediate tools to address public safety concerns, especially as provincial action may be slower. The RCMP has appealed to the public for assistance, urging residents to report any suspicious activity that could aid ongoing investigations.

The CFSEU has previously deployed teams to Fort St. John to address similar violence. The specific timeline for the current deployment has not been announced, but the unit is working to establish a presence in a timely manner. The RCMP detachment commander described the shootings as deeply concerning for both the police and the community, emphasizing the importance of public cooperation in resolving these incidents.