West Shore RCMP have arrested a man who pulled out a handgun while being pursued by police.
On Saturday, June 1st at approximately 9:20 p.m., police attempted to pull over the driver of a grey ford pick-up truck after witnessing him run a red light on Jacklin Rd and Station Ave in Langford.
Instead of stopping for police, the truck sped up and wove in and out of oncoming traffic to get away.
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A few minutes later, a complaint was registered of the same truck parked dangerously on the shoulder of Trans Canada Highway at the Six Mile Rd off ramp.
When a West Shore RCMP officer found and approached the vehicle, its lone occupant – the driver – jumped out and started running southbound on Trans Canada Highway.
The officer ran after the suspect, only to witness the latter pull out a black handgun from his waist band.
Once backup officers arrived, the suspect stopped running and engaged in a physical altercation with police. The 36-year-old man was then arrested.
“This was a high-risk situation. No shots were fired by either police or the suspect,” said Cst Saggar, West Shore RCMP media spokesperson.
“The handgun was also recovered. We are thankful that our officers were not seriously injured in this incident.”
See also: Nearly 80% of British Columbians would support a handgun ban (SURVEY)
Police are now recommending several charges against the suspect including Flight from Police, Dangerous Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm in a Motor Vehicle, Carrying a Concealed Weapon, Possession of a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose and Obstructing a Police Officer.
He is currently in custody and is set to appear in court on Tuesday, June 4th.
