Man in custody after break-in report and highway closure restricts firefighter access to wildfire

DAWSON CREEK, B.C. — One person is in police custody following a police investigation that closed Highway 52 for a day, restricting wildfire personnel travel to the Kiskatinaw River wildfire. 

According to a press release on June 17th, RCMP in Dawson Creek were told someone had broken into a home and crashed into the homeowner’s vehicle before fleeing the scene at approximately 5 a.m. on June 15th.

The person was allegedly known to the homeowner and in possession of a firearm, however no shots were reported to have been fired. 

Corporal Madonna Saunderson, RCMP media relations officer for the North District, said Dawson Creek police pursued a man, but when he fled, officers chose to track the vehicle rather than risk the safety of the public with a chase. 

A vehicle was later found crashed in a ditch on Highway 52, with police reporting to have seen a person had left the scene on foot using a drone.

“The suspect threatened self-harm and indicated that he had a firearm in his possession,” Saunderson alleged. 

Emergency response teams from the North District and Prince George RCMP were called to the scene, and Highway 52 was closed to traffic until 4:30 p.m. on June 15th.

Using drones and police dogs, RCMP arrested a person without further incident on 211 Road. Officers were not able to locate a firearm, and the person is currently in police custody. 

Saunderson confirmed the road closure did impact BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) personnel, who were unable to access the Kiskatinaw River wildfire during this time.  

“They were immediately notified when the highway was reopened and were able to send the crews back to Kelly Lake,” Saunderson said.