Sunshine Coast RCMP reported the following for May 2 to May 10:
Shots fired
A tree planter working in the area of Dakota Ridge called police around 2:30 p.m. on May 5 to report that someone shooting in the area nearly hit him, as he heard a bullet fly by his head. The planter attempted to draw attention to himself but no one answered, although an ATV was heard in the area shortly afterwards. Police attended but did not locate anyone with firearms. Anyone shooting in the wilderness should ensure they are following all laws and safety procedures before starting. As there are numerous places on the Sunshine Coast where recreational shooters or hunters discharge their firearms, anyone who hears guns being fired should stay well away from the area, and ensure that they are visible to anyone around them.
Scam
On May 5, the owner of a retail store in Gibsons called to report being harassed by an apparent scam artist. The store owner had received several calls and faxes from someone claiming that they had provided advertising and phone-directory services to the store. The owner, who had not used such services, was issued an invoice for $400 by the suspect. The owner recognized the situation as a scam, and contacted the Better Business Bureau. Police encourage other business owners to ensure they have actually received the services they are billed for.
Arson / mischief
A possible arson in the 700 block of Park Road in Gibsons is under investigation after an old shed was apparently set on fire shortly before 7:30 p.m. on May 7. The Gibsons Fire Department worked to put out the fire while Sunshine Coast RCMP assisted with crowd control, due to a nearby baseball game. Information from a witness indicated that the fire was intentionally set. Police are investigating and are looking to speak with anyone who may have more information. Please contact Sunshine Coast RCMP or Crimestoppers.
During the evening of May 7, a vehicle entered the school field of Madeira Park Elementary and tore up the grass. A piece of the suspect vehicle was left at the scene, and has since been turned over to police for examination. RCMP are continuing to investigate, and ask anyone with information to contact Sunshine Coast RCMP.
Traffic
After receiving a complaint about increased traffic on the Port Mellon Highway due to a mill shutdown, police have stepped up enforcement on the stretch of highway. During a 1.5 hour period on May 9, police issued 18 traffic violations in the area, which included both violation tickets and written warnings. Motorists can expect a continued police presence in the Port Mellon area.
Around 7:30 am on May 10, police stopped a 31-year-old man on West Reed Road in Gibsons after an off-duty officer observed the man squealing his truck tires, honking his horn, shouting out the window and repeatedly driving up and down the road. The man, who had open liquor in the truck, an odour of liquor on his breath and slurred speech, refused to provide a breath sample and was issued a 90-day immediate roadside prohibition, as well as violation tickets, and the truck was impounded.
