RCMP searching for a vehicle after gun shots fired at officer

MERRITT – The search for a vehicle is on for Merritt RCMP after gunshots fired at an officer early this morning (December 19).

RCMP said there was a suspicious vehicle parked at the rest area near Hamilton road in Merritt. The officer approached the vehicle on foot and as they got closer to speak to the driver, the rear passenger side window rolled down and a firearm was presented and shots were fired.

According to police, the responding member was not injured and fired several shots back in return as the vehicle sped away.

“The Merritt RCMP are currently searching for this vehicle and its occupants,” said Sgt Josh Roda. “It’s unknown if anyone in the vehicle was injured from the member firing their service pistol.  We are asking anyone with information on this incident, or may be treating anyone for an injury consistent with being shot to immediately call 9-1-1”

The vehicle is being described as:

• Mid 2000’s Jeep Cherokee
• Dark coloured
• Square body style
• No running lights
• Snow covering the license plate
• May have bullet holes or broken windows

RCMP said the Jeep was last seen travelling westbound on Hamilton Hill Road towards the 286 interchange.

If anyone has footage from the area of Hamilton Hill Road between 5:00 a.m.- 6:00 a.m., or if there was any witnesses, please contact Merritt RCMP at 250-378-4262.