VPD investigate gun fire in Downtown Eastside

Vancouver Police are investigating after shots were fired and bear spray was deployed in the Downtown Eastside this morning.

"Officers were at the scene within minutes but were not able to find a victim," says Constable Jason Doucette. "This is a heavily populated area and we are concerned someone may have been hit. We encourage anyone who may have been injured to seek medical help, and to report the incident to police."

Just before 11:00 this morning, the VPD received 9-1-1 calls reporting a man standing at East Hastings and Columbia Street had just fired a gun, then ran out of the area. The witnesses also reported bear spray had been deployed around the same time.

"Our officers located evidence to confirm shots were fired, and continue to search the area for suspect and potential victims," adds Constable Doucette.