Mental health calls
A spokesperson for the Squamish RCMP detachment says officers have received a large number of mental health calls recently. The calls range from being asked to check on someone to assisting those in a serious mental health crisis. It is unknown why this past week had many community members struggling and the spokesperson said in a news release the "hope is those who need help are able to reach family, friends, or support networks. Please ask those around you if they are doing ok and if they need any assistance to help bridge the gaps. As well, seek assistance from local Vancouver Coastal Health teams.”
Excessive speed
A driver from Surrey has been given multiple tickets and had their vehicle impounded for seven days after being caught speeding on the Sea to Sky Highway.
On Nov. 23, the Sea to Sky Traffic unit was conducting road safety enforcement on Highway 99 in Squamish when they saw a vehicle travelling 135 km/hr in a 60 km/hr zone. After officers attempted to stop the driver, they turned around in the middle of the highway and headed in the opposite direction. Police were able to stop the vehicle a short time later and the driver was issued multiple violation tickets including for excessive speed, driving without consideration, and for performing an unsafe U-turn.
Enforcing masks
A person was given a stern talking to by police on Nov. 24 after refusing to don a mask and damaging a downtown business' door.
The police were called after the customer became angry due to a request to wear a mask in the business. The individual left the business damaging the door in the incident. The customer was located a short time later and spoken to by police. No tickets were issued but a warning was provided. Under the BC Public Health Order masks are mandatory whilst inside a public business unless otherwise exempt. The fine for non-compliance can be $230
Fire in Lions Bay
Police say a fire in a Lions Bay basement is a good reminder to make sure smoke detectors are working and to be careful with heaters and fireplaces this winter.
On Nov 26, police were called to assist Lions Bay Fire Department who were putting out a basement fire at a home.
Upon arrival, officers determined everyone had exited the residence. The fire started due to an item that had fallen on the glass front of a fireplace.
Go here for Squamish Fire Service Safety information: https://squamish.ca/our-services/protective-services/fire-rescue/firesafety/
Behaving badly at a restaurant
A man was arrested after causing damage to a restaurant after being asked to leave on the evening of Nov. 27. After the man left, police were able to locate him a short distance away and he was arrested for Failing to Comply with Undertaking.
The Crown has yet to approve the charge.
Type and number of files for Nov. 23 to 29
● Total number of files: 153
● Mental Health Act calls: 10
● Cause a disturbance: 9
● False alarm calls: 3
● Collision investigations: 6
● Assaults: 3
Anyone with any information regarding these incidents is asked to contact the Squamish RCMP at 604-892-6100, or contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, or go to the website www.solvecrime.ca.
