Vancouver Island man arrested after racist incident at First Nation reserve caught on camera

RCMP have arrested and released one man after a video surfaced online showing passengers of a truck yelling racial taunts while driving through a First Nation reserve.

In a statement released on Thursday, Port Alberni RCMP said they received reports of an “alarming” incident that took place on the Tseshaht First Nations reserve at 1:30 a.m. on June 2.

According to police, witnesses stated that non-residents were driving through the community in a white pick-up truck, yelling racist comments, and throwing debris. A part of the incident was captured on camera and shared online where it went viral.

The incident was being investigated by Port Alberni RCMP and Indigenous Policing Section when, on June 3, a suspect from the incident showed up at the Port Alberni police department.

The man, from Qualicum, was arrested and cooperated with police. He was later released from custody on conditions not to return to the Tseshaht First Nation. A court date is yet to be determined.

“This type of behaviour is reprehensible and repulsive,” said Sgt. Peter Dionne. “Luckily no one was hurt physically by this persons actions, and the witnesses had the wherewithal to record the incident and forward it to the police for the investigation.”

The video of the incident sparked outrage on social media and drew responses from both the Mayor of Port Alberni and the Elected Chief Councillor for Tseshaht First Nation.

According to Cpl. Chris Manseau, the investigation into the incident is still ongoing. Police are not able to confirm whether there were any other suspects involved.

No charges have yet been laid.