Kamloops RCMP are looking for the public’s assistance in connection with a trio of incidents that took place over the holidays, including an explosive device that was safely disposed of.
On Sunday, Dec. 22 at around 5:45 p.m., Kamloops RCMP detachment officers were called to the 1300-block of Hillside Drive for a report of a robbery involving a firearm.
“Multiple officers responded to the area and quickly located and arrested one person, who was also wanted on arrest warrants,” said Corporal Crystal Evelyn, Kamloops RCMP spokesperson.
“Based on the investigation, police believe two people were involved. We are releasing an image of the outstanding suspect to the public with the hope that someone will recognize him and contact the detachment as soon as possible.”
The suspect is described as male, with a fair complexion. He was wearing a beige vest with a zipper that was over a black, long-sleeved hoodie; a black hat with a white logo; and black pants and dark shoes. He was carrying a blue duffle bag or backpack, as well as a square sling bag. (Reference file 2024-41520.)
On Saturday, Dec. 28 at around 7 p.m., a concerning incident was reported near Capilano Drive. Kamloops RCMP officers responded to a call for service in which a youth had allegedly been threatened with a firearm while on a trail at around 4 p.m. that day.
“Upon receiving the report, officers attended and surveyed the area, obtained statements, and canvassed for video,” said Evelyn. “We are turning to the public in an attempt to obtain more security or dash camera footage, witnesses, and information that could help further the investigation.”
According to the report, the youth was walking on a trail near Capilano Drive when they encountered a man sitting on a log, who produced a firearm and threatened the youth with it, then chased the youth onto the roadway.
The man is described as a Caucasian male with a brown moustache and beard, who was wearing all-black clothing that included a toque, a medical mask, and a fanny pack. No similar incidents have been reported since then, (Reference file 2024 42078.)
Police are also looking for witnesses to an offence that could have seen the New Year begin with a dangerous bang.
On Jan. 1, at around 1:20 p.m., Kamloops RCMP officers responded to the area of Schubert Drive and Richmond Avenue, where a suspicious item had been located on the beach. Shortly after, the Explosive Disposal Unit (EDU) was contacted and asked to attend.
“Based on the appearance of the item, officers believed it was a very small pipe bomb, which was later confirmed,” said Evelyn. “Police immediately protected the area from public access until the EDU could attend and safely dispose of the item later that day.” (Reference file 2025-68.)
Anyone with information that may be related to any of these ongoing investigations is asked to please contact the Kamloops RCMP Detachment at (250) 828-3000 and reference the appropriate file number. If you wish to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
