Sidney North Saanich RCMP say that around 1 a.m. Sunday morning a volunteer was shot in the head with a pellet gun.
Police say the volunteer was patrolling with a group near North Saanich Middle School, the man was in his vehicle with the driver’s window slightly open and heard a loud bang and then the man felt a sharp pain in his head.
“Police and paramedics attended and it was determined our volunteer had been struck by what appears to be a BB pellet projectile,” said Sidney/North Saanich RCMP Cpl. Erin Fraser.
“A small pellet was subsequently located on the back seat of the vehicle.”
No one was located at the time; however, RCMP say they now have two youths in custody. The weapon has been seized.
It is believed this was a random incident and not targeted. The investigation is ongoing.
The Citizens on Patrol Program (COPP) concept originated in Western Canada. Ordinary citizens supplement police patrols to help reduce crime by keeping a neighbourly watch over their communities. Patrols watch for any unusual and/or criminal activity, and report such incidents to the police for any necessary follow-up.
The Sidney/North Saanich RCMP volunteer group is made up of retired residents of Sidney and North Saanich.
Police are reminding the public of the dangers of deploying projectile-type weapons in populated areas.
If you have any information on this incident, you are asked to call Sidney North Saanich RCMP at (250) 656-3931 or CRIME STOPPERS.