ON Friday, January 14 at approximately 9:20 p.m., Coquitlam RCMP received reports of gunshots in the parking lot located at 1000-block of Austin Avenue. Police located a man with gunshot wounds. BC Emergency Health Services transported the victim to hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries.

The victim, known to police, had surgery and is in stable condition. He is expected to make a full recovery from his injuries.

Police said the shooting took place in a public location and two innocent bystanders were taken to hospital for minor injuries which are believed to have been caused from the debris from the shooting. Initial indications are that this is a targeted incident. The investigation is in its early stages.

“The dedicated investigators from the Coquitlam RCMP Major Crime Unit have taken the lead on this investigation and will be engaged with all our law enforcement partners, especially the members from CFSEU-BC [Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit – BC], to identify, apprehend and hold those responsible for this attempted murder to justice,” said Inspector Darren Carr, Coquitlam Detachment Operations Officer.

“Whether the support is analytical or operational, the collaboration between police of jurisdictions and CFSEU-BC is critical to impacting individuals and groups who threaten the safety of our communities. This integrated effort amongst all agencies not only leads to successful investigations and holds those responsible accountable, but also suppresses and disrupts the individuals involved and their ability to engage in future violence,” said Superintendent Duncan Pound, CFSEU-BC Operations Officer.

The Coquitlam RCMP Major Crime Unit is looking for any eyewitnesses and anyone that may have commercial or residential video footage or dash cam footage. They are requested to call the Coquitlam RCMP Detachment at 604-945-1550 and ask to speak to the Major Crime Section. Any assistance from the public is greatly appreciated, police said.