Reports of motel robbery deemed ‘unfounded’ following RCMP investigation

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — Police officers in Fort St. John say reports of a robbery at a motel in Fort St. John have been proven unfounded.

According to a press release from the local RCMP detachment, officers received a report at 2:16 p.m. on July 18th of a potential robbery at a motel on 100th Street involving a female and three male suspects, all reportedly armed.

Frontline offices, plainclothes units, municipal traffic and BC Highway Patrol officers all converged on the hotel, according to the release, and tried to call out to the room the three suspects were allegedly hiding in.

“Frontline officers utilized various use-of-force weapons in response to the report of hand guns,” the release reads. “Three males exited the building in response to callouts and were taken into police custody.”

Police say an investigation ultimately revealed the alleged robbery didn’t take place, and the person who called in the complaint had “received third-party information that had been highly exaggerated.” The file was deemed ‘unfounded.’

“The public would have noticed a significant police presence with guns drawn as part of the response to the initial report,” said Constable Chad Neustaeter. “Police have to respond according to the report received but once all information is gathered, can also change course, as in this investigation.”

All three males were released from police custody at the scene and officers cleared the area, meaning no arrests were made.