Violent offender arrested after barricading himself inside Port Alberni motel room

A man wanted since January was the cause for a major police standoff at a hotel in Port Alberni on Monday morning.

43-year-old David Daniel Bird, who was wanted for robbery, forcible confinement, break and enter and assault with a weapon, barricaded himself in a Redford Street motel.

Bird was spotted in one of the motel’s rooms, prompting a large police presence in the vicinity around Tyee Village Motel.

Videos and photos from the scene show multiple officers with their guns drawn.

RCMP officers received support from the Major Crime Unit in Port Alberni to control the area until the Vancouver Island Critical Incident Command Team arrived on the scene.

This team comprises of emergency response team members, negotiators, and command elements from various locations across Vancouver Island.

“Barricaded people are inherently dangerous situations that are often fluid and dynamic,” said Constable Richard Johns.

“We appreciate the understanding of citizens who allowed officers work through this to come to a safe end. Officers were able to ensure this situation resolved quickly and safely through cooperation with BC EHS, Port Alberni Fire Department and staff from the City of Port Alberni.”

Bird was held for a bail hearing and has been remanded in custody for court appearances later this month.