Suspect arrested after firearm reported at New Westminster shopping centre

A suspect is facing potential charges after allegedly brandishing a firearm at a patron outside a coffee shop in New Westminster on Wednesday morning, according to the New Westminster Police Department.

Police said officers responded to a 9-1-1 call at about 6 a.m. on July 30 after receiving reports that a person had pointed a firearm at someone seated on the patio of a business in the Columbia Square shopping centre. Investigators determined the suspect fled across Columbia Street, passed through a hole in a fence and crossed nearby railway tracks.

Officers searched the area with assistance from the New Westminster Police Department's drone unit and the Lower Mainland District Integrated Police Dog Service. Police said the suspect was located in bushes beside the railway tracks and taken into custody without further incident. Officers reported recovering prohibited weapons, several knives and cans of bear spray during the arrest. A subsequent search of the area also located the firearm.

"This is the second time within a week our officers have seized a firearm," Sgt. Andrew Leaver said in a news release, describing the arrest as the result of a coordinated police response.

Police credited the Lower Mainland District Integrated Police Dog Service for assisting with the arrest and firearm recovery. They also thanked the witness who called 9-1-1 promptly, saying the early report allowed officers to reach the area while the suspect was still nearby.