Man arrested, released after threatening to kill BC firefighters

WILLIAMS LAKE (NEWS 1130) – Mounties in the community of Williams Lake, which has been ravaged by wildfires, confirm they received a report of a serious threat made towards crews working to douse the flames.

They say just after 10 a.m. on July 18th, they were told a man threatened some firefighters.

“In speaking with this fireman, RCMP learned that while working in an area of Springfield Road the day prior (July 17th) a local resident had allegedly threatened to kill firefighters, if they continued to conduct back burning in the area. With this male, was a group of other males, one of whom was alleged to have been carrying a handgun on his hip,” says RCMP Corporal Janelle Shoihet in a statement.

After following up, police identified a 44-year-old man who is believed to have made the threat. “In speaking with RCMP he acknowledged the statements were made in a time of extreme stress,” adds Shoihet.

Police say charges are not being considered right now, however, his gun has been seized.

RCMP say a 57-year-old man, who reportedly had a gun, was found and arrested. When police searched his car they found a “loaded, insecure handgun, and six rifles.” His firearms have been seized and he has been released from custody.

“We understand that tensions are running high, but we have to continue to pull together as a community to fight the fires in whatever way we can. The firemen and women have a job to do, as do we, we ask that continue to be patient as we work together with all of our partners to make your community a safe place to return to,” says Inspector Jeff Pelley, Officer in Charge of the Williams Lake RCMP.

The 57-year-old has a scheduled court appearance for November.

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