On Wednesday August 29th at approximately 2100 hours, Saanich Police responded to a report of a male who claimed to be armed with a firearm and extremely agitated in the lobby of the Pearkes Recreation Centre. Members were able to quickly conatain the building and ensure the safety of those that remained inside. Negotiations commenced with the male who was extremely emotional and insisted that he was in possession of a firearm.
After lengthy negotiations with the male, he eventually surrendered without incident and was taken into custody by officers from the Greater Victoria Emergency Response Team (GVERT).
There was no firearm located by arresting officers and the male admitted that he he never had one in his possession. The male was subsequently taken to hospital for further assessment.
S/Sgt Paul Smith #143
Saanich File 18-21681