Comox Valley RCMP are asking the public for help as officers investigate a string of troubling incidents involving youth and young adults in Courtenay last week.
The first report came in at around 7:30 p.m. on March 25th, when police were called to the area of 21st Street and Piercy Avenue.
Witnesses say a group of youth were chasing another group when one of the individuals allegedly brandished and fired what appeared to be a pellet gun, then deployed bear spray.
Several people were treated by emergency personnel at the scene.
Shortly after, police received additional reports of theft and threats, which investigators believe are linked to the same group of youth involved in the earlier altercation.
In the early morning hours of March 26th, police responded to two more incidents.
Just before 3 a.m., officers were called to the 800-block of Willemar Avenue for a reported assault. Then, at approximately 4:20 a.m., they received a call about an injured man walking along Woods Avenue.
The individual was located and taken to hospital, where he remains in serious but non-life-threatening condition.
According to investigators, the most serious assault appears to have occurred during a gathering of youth and young adults on the 400-block of Willemar Avenue. Evidence believed to be linked to one of the earlier reports was recovered at the scene.
“The Comox Valley RCMP Major Crime Unit is leading the investigation with support from the Bike Unit, Street Crimes Unit, Police Dog Services (Magic), and the Integrated Forensic Identification Section,” said Constable Monika Terragni, media relations officer for the Comox Valley RCMP.
Police believe the incidents were targeted, and that all of the individuals involved are known to one another. At this time, there is no indication of any ongoing risk to public safety.
“We want to reassure the community that a thorough investigation is underway, and public safety remains our top priority,” said Cst. Terragni.
Anyone who witnessed suspicious activity in the areas mentioned or who may have relevant information is asked to contact the Comox Valley RCMP at (250) 338-1321.
