Gang or drug-related? Nanaimo RCMP remain tight-lipped about Thursday’s brazen midday shooting

Nanaimo RCMP sent a big police response to the scene of a daytime shooting that left one dead on Thursday afternoon.

The incident took place at the Rock City Plaza parking lot, located at 2980 Island Highway at approximately 3:30 p.m.

Multiple squad cars — including unmarked vehicles — along with multiple BC Emergency Health Services vehicles could be seen from video footage of the Rock City Plaza location.

Police say that one man was found deceased in a parked vehicle from apparent gunshot wounds.

The BC Coroners Service attended the scene as well.

According to Nanaimo RCMP, police also spent time searching the area of the Best Western Hotel on Metral Drive for forensic evidence.

“Most of us believe the violence is related to drugs,” said Nanaimo Mayor Leonard Krog. “I can only hope the quick work of the police will be reflected in further arrests in due course so that we can stamp out the trade, or at least reduce it to the point where gangs aren’t killing each other in public places, endangering the lives of innocent citizens.”

Police told CHEK News Thursday night, that multiple arrests have been made in connection to the event.

Friday however, the force was unable to offer any updates on the investigation or to confirm or deny if this daytime shooting was targeted and related to gang violence.

“This is a dynamic investigation and at this time we cannot confirm if there are others who are not in custody, who may be involved in this shooting. As further information becomes known, the public will be advised,” said Constable Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP.

It is unclear whether there is any danger to the public at this time.

Anyone with dashcam video from the area of Rock City Plaza from 3:15 pm to 3:45 pm today is being asked to call the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345, and quote file # 2021-18372.

This is a developing story and will be updated when more information is learned.

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