Deadly shooting at Prince Rupert, BC shopping center was an isolated incident: RCMP

Prince Rupert RCMP says a 44-year-old man is believed to have shot and killed a 52-year-old woman at a local shopping center on Monday morning before attempting to take his own life, in an incident that prompted an area lockdown.

Police were called to the Ocean Center mall after reports of gunshots and fears of an active shooter, but officers say it was an “isolated incident” between two people who knew each other.

The RCMP says in a statement that the woman was pronounced dead at the scene and the man is in hospital in critical condition.

Const. Gabriel Gravel says that potential witnesses who have not spoken to the police should come forward and give a statement.

Investigators are also looking for surveillance, dashcam or other video recordings of the entire mall between the hours of 6 and 9 a.m.

The mall has been closed to the public until further notice and while police say there is no active threat, they are asking people to avoid the area while officers continue their investigation.

The names of the victim and the alleged gunman have not been released.

The shooting had raised concerns from officials, including Prime Minister David Eby, who began his housing news conference on Monday with comments on the incident.

“I understand that there is a very serious police-involving incident in Prince Rupert this morning that sounds incredibly concerning and that our thoughts and certainly our hearts go out to everyone affected by that incident this morning,” he said.

“We have limited details at this time, but certainly everyone in British Columbia is thinking about the people of Prince Rupert right now.”

Prince Rupert Mayor Herb Pond said the shooting was “truly tragic” and that supports are available to anyone in the small community who may need them.

Pond said his office, located near the scene, was closed for about 90 minutes and people were told not to leave.

“When you find out that this is a truly tragic incident, it is overwhelming. Many of our staff know at least some of the people involved. There is some overlap. Therefore, we are offering advice to our people,” she said.

Pond encouraged residents who felt affected by the incident to seek resources.

“So make sure you reach out and get the help you need. (There’s) nothing wrong with getting help,” he said.

RCMP Staff Sgt. Dave Uppal said police knew of the trauma the shooting would have on many people and that there was support for those who might need help.

Eryn Collins, a spokeswoman for the Northern Health authority, said her Prince Rupert health unit is at the mall, but the incident did not occur on the premises.

She said offices have been closed until further notice and clients who have appointments have been informed.

Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachrach said he was “shocked and saddened” by the news.

“My thoughts are with the loved ones of the injured, local first responders and all those affected,” he said on Twitter.

This report from The Canadian Press was first published on November 21, 2022.


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