ON Wednesday, May 7 at approximately 2:28 a.m., Richmond RCMP responded to a 9-1-1 call from a man in distress. The man’s location mapped to rural farmland to the southeast of No. 4 Road and Westminster Highway. Officers attended the location, and with the assistance of the Lower Mainland Integrated Police Dog Service (IPDS), a track was established into the area.
Officers located the man and attempted to engage to ensure his safety and the safety of the public. During the encounter, the man produced and randomly discharged an airgun as well as stabbed the police service dog (PSD). The police dog sustained multiple puncture wounds and was transported for emergency veterinary care. Following the initial assessment, the dog remains stable and recovery appears favourable.
The area was contained by police and the Lower Mainland Integrated Emergency Response Team (IERT) was called in to assist. The man was safely taken into custody at 7:35 a.m.
Officers believe this to be an isolated incident and there is no ongoing safety risk to the public. The roadways in the area are now reopened.
“Thanks to the quick response of our frontline members, LMD IPDS, and LMD IERT, this event ended with the suspect being taken into custody,” said Chief Superintendent Dave Chauhan, Officer-in-Charge of the Richmond RCMP. “On behalf of our community we would like to thank our integrated teams and recognize the PSD and their handler for their bravery and service.”
“Our teams respond to dynamic situations across the LMD, working closely with our local RCMP Detachments and municipal police agencies to keep our communities safe,” said Staff-Sgt. Derek King, IPDS Unit Commander. “The well-being of our dogs and handlers is of the utmost importance to us. We will be continuing to monitor the condition of the PSD and support the handler.”
Richmond RCMP Serious Crimes Unit has conduct of the investigation, which remains ongoing.
