How do I...
If the crime you are reporting is an emergency, call 9-1-1.
If the crime you are reporting is not an emergency, you can call the non-emergency line at 604-525-5411 or attend our Front Counter at 555 Columbia Street, New Westminster, BC.
New Westminster – On October 1st at approximately 4:00 pm the New Westminster Police Department responded to numerous 9-1-1 calls about a man waving knives around in the area of East Columbia and Braid Street.
New Westminster Police Department officers provided verbal de-escalation techniques in the hopes the suspect could be safely taken into custody, however, the suspect did not comply. The suspect proceeded to flee from police, running away with a knife in each hand. Police pursued the suspect instructing him to drop the knives. Officers deployed the ARWEN, which is a less lethal distance option and the suspect complied with instructions to drop his knives.
“This could have been an extremely dangerous situation. Thankfully, officers were able to use their training and experience to resolve this situation safely,” stated Sergeant Justine Thom. “The male sustained a minor injuries and was assessed at a local area hospital.”
Anyone who witnessed this incident and feels they would benefit from the support of the Victim Assistance Unit can call 604-529-2525 or email VAU@nwpolice.org.
Anyone with witness information is asked to call the New Westminster Police Department at 604-525-5411.
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CONTACT PERSON: Hailey Finnigan
PHONE: 604-529-2576
FILE: 22-14878
