Police lock down area after 'shots fired' with multiple gunmen on the loose

09 March 2024 , 22:25

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Police have swarmed the scene (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Police are warning people to find shelter after reports that shots were fired and multiple gunmen are on the loose. Officers in the Millbrook area of Nova Scotia say the suspects are believed to be on foot.

A heavy police presence is in near Willow Street. Residents are advised to immediately seek shelter and to not leave a secure location. One person has been arrested.

An update from RCMP Nova Scotia on X, formerly Twitter, read: "Please be advised of heavy police presence near Willow St. in #Millbrook. RCMPNS officers are on scene investigating possible shots fired. One man is in custody. Avoid the area."

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RCMP updated the area, saying they've arrested two individuals

A later update at 5.13pm local time (9.13pm London) read: A dangerous person alert has been issued for Colchester County: Dangerous people with firearm in Millbrook, Nova Scotia. If in the area seek immediate shelter or shelter in place and close and lock doors and windows.

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"Do not leave a secure location. No vehicle/suspect descriptions available. Suspects believe to be on foot. To report emergencies, dial 9-1-1. Dot pick up hitch hikers. Do not disclose police locations. Updates will be posted to RCMP Facebook and X accounts."

A heavy police presence is in near Willow Street

According to CBC News, a RCMP spokesperson said it's unclear how many people police are looking for. She also added that they do not currently have vehicle or suspect descriptions to release.

A local resident says a helicopter is circling the area believed to be linked to the ongoing incident. This has yet to be confirmed by authorities. The RCMP said they will provide updates as new information is available. Residents in the Millbrook area received a text alert informing them of the incident.

Officers said they would remain in the area to continue with the investigation

Millbrook residents on social media have reported a large police presence in the area made up of both marked and unmarked vehicles. Some have referred to the town being on “lockdown”. Some local business' in the area have also been telling customers they are on lockdown.

At about 6.55 pm, authorities said there has been a cancellation of the dangerous person alert for Colchester County. As of now, five individuals have been brought into custody by RCMP police. According to the officers, there aren't any more suspects. The public is no longer at risk.

Officers said they would remain in the area to continue with the investigation. A gunman in Nova Scotia went on a shooting rampage in April 2020 while posing as a police officer.

Twenty-two people were killed in it, including a police constable, a 17-year-old teenager, a pregnant mother, and a primary school teacher. The details of Canada's deadliest mass shooting are currently being investigated by a public inquiry.

Charlie Jones