Date: Wednesday, March 8, 2023
File: 23-8212
Victoria, BC – Officers have cleared the potential HAZMAT site in a multi-unit residential building in the 400-block of Chester Avenue.
On Monday, officers with both Patrol and the Greater Victoria Emergency Response Team attended the building while investigating an assault. During the course of their investigation officers discovered potentially hazardous materials. Out of an abundance of caution, officers called the Victoria Fire Department as well as RCMP members with specialized training. Roads in the area were closed to traffic and a safety perimeter was established.
A VicPD Special Municipal Constable provides scene security while the team of investigators works to ensure the area is safe.
Police were able to determine that the materials in question were not a risk to the public or the occupants of the building.
A suspect in the assault investigation attended a neighbouring police department and has been arrested.
The suspect has been held in custody to appear in court. Major Crime Unit (MCU) detectives have assumed conduct of the investigation and are recommending charges of aggravated assault.
The incident remains under investigation.
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