RCMP seeking publics help in another targeted shooting

UPDATE: November 18, 10:32 a.m.

MERRITT – Merritt RCMP are now asking for the publics assistance in response to the targeted shooting that took place this morning (November 18) in the 2100 block of Priest Avenue.

“We strongly believe that this incident is associated to the ongoing investigation to the shooting that occurred earlier this week,” said Merritt RCMP A/Commander Sgt. Josh Roda. “Fortunately there have been no reports of injuries from the shooting, and investigators are continuing their tireless efforts to identify and apprehend the suspects in these brazen events. Investigators continue to canvass the area for witnesses and residential video.”

Witnesses said a distinctive mid 90’s grey Dodge Ram pickup truck with a maroon box was in the area at the time of the shooting but quickly fled the scene. Shortly after the reports of gunshots, there was a second call to police about a vehicle on fire near the Highway 5 and Highway 5a on-ramp, which matched the description. Officers later determined the truck to be stolen earlier in the morning at around 5:30 a.m..

It’s believed that the truck was stolen solely for the purpose of the shooting, then it was dumped and burned near the Highway 5 and Highway 5a on-ramp at an area known as the Goedy Creek pit. Roda added.

Merritt RCMP are now urging local businesses and residents to check any possible surveillance video that may have captured the theft, shooting, or fire.

Video surveillance is being requested at the following locations:

• 1700 block of Granite Avenue
  • Theft of the truck scene
• 2100 block of Priest Avenue
  • Shots fired scene
• Highway 5a on-ramp
  • Truck fire scene

If any one in the public recognizes the truck or has any information about the incidents this morning are asked to please contact Merritt RCMP.

Image Credit: Contributed / Merritt RCMP

ORIGINAL: November 18, 10:09 a.m.

MERRITT – Merritt RCMP are responding to a suspected targeted shooting within the city.

Early this morning (November 18), reports of gunshots at the corner of Priest Avenue and Garcia Street issued the response from police and have the area blocked off.

School District 58 released a statement that said they were in contact with RCMP and it was targeted shootings. Schools within the city are not connected and will remain open.

This comes after multiple targeted shootings occurred in the area Tuesday morning.

The investigation is still ongoing and more information to come as it becomes available.