Released by Cpl. Jeff Witzke

Columbia Valley RCMP

This past week, December 5 through December 11, the Columbia Valley RCMP responded to 51 calls for service. The following is a summary of some of the file our officers responded to.

On Dec. 9 the RCMP were dispatched to a residence in Canal Flats where a victim had been cut with an edge weapon. The suspect was known to the victim and appeared to be suffering from a mental health episode. Members attended the residence where the suspect was arrested and apprehended under the Mental Health Act without issue. The victim was taken to hospital and released shortly after with minor injuries. Charges are being recommended and have been forwarded to the crown prosecutors.  This was an isolated event and at the time of the call the members did not believe the public was at risk. The suspect was located within the community of Canal flats, however the suspect was unarmed and cooperative with the police, wanting to turn themselves in. 

On Dec. 9, the RCMP were made aware of a possible arson at the RDEK Transfer Station near Edgewater. The fire department was made aware of the fire and upon arrival they observed what appeared to be books and ignited by gas, outside of the dumpster. The fire had already been extinguished. If anyone was in the area in the morning of Dec. 9 and saw anything suspicious, they are encouraged to contact the local RCMP. 

On Dec. 9, Columbia Valley RCMP were dispatched to a damaged hydro power pole on Fairmont Street in Windermere. Members attended the scene and noted the power pole had been struck by a vehicle, which was no longer on scene. The power pole had significant damage and was in need of replacing.  The license plate to the vehicle had fallen off at the scene and the registered owner was later issued a ticket for failing to remain at the scene. 

Shortly after midnight on Dec. 10, Columbia Valley RCMP were dispatched to another hydro power pole being struck on Victoria Ave. in Windermere. Members attended the scene and observed a vehicle had collided with the power pole and sustained major damage. The occupants stayed on scene. Alcohol was believed to be involved and the driver was issued a provincial immediate roadside prohibition.