Prince Rupert, B.C. – A quiet suburban neighborhood in Prince Rupert, British Columbia, is now the center of a homicide investigation after four individuals were discovered dead in a home on Silverside Drive. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) initiated the investigation on Tuesday night, and authorities have been on the scene since then.
The police were alerted to the situation at approximately 9 p.m. PT on June 13. The 100 block of Silverside Drive, located on the east side of the North Coast city, is a relatively new residential area with a population of around 12,000 residents. Constable Brody Hemrich, who is overseeing the case, stated that multiple personnel are still present at the scene. However, he emphasized that there is no immediate threat to the public.
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When CBC News visited the property on Wednesday afternoon, it was evident that the police had cordoned off the area. Both the yard and the residence were behind police tape, and three vehicles, two in the driveway and one on the street, were also marked off.
The abruptness and tragedy of the event have sent shockwaves throughout the close-knit community. Nick Adey, a Prince Rupert Councillor and acting mayor, expressed his condolences on behalf of the mayor and council. “This is a horrific tragedy for our entire community,” Adey said, his voice filled with empathy. He directed those in need of support to the RCMP’s victim services department, urging them to reach out for assistance.
The victims’ names have not been released, leaving the community in a state of profound grief and uncertainty. The close proximity of the incident to a nearby elementary and high school has raised concerns among parents and residents alike.
Prince Rupert, a city familiar with tragedy, faced a similar incident in November 2022 when a murder-suicide occurred at a local mall. Adey acknowledged the collective pain that the community has endured, stating, “It hits home really hard … you realize you are part of that world in which things of this nature can happen. It really is very tragic.”
MLA Jennifer Rice also expressed her sorrow and support for those affected by the recent tragedy. In a statement, she wrote, “My heart breaks for the people impacted by this terrible tragedy.” Reflecting on the city’s resilience, Rice emphasized the importance of unity during such trying times, saying, “We have been confronted with tragedy before, and it’s important to recall how capable and resilient we were in holding each other up during those tough times. We can and must do it again now.”
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Meanwhile, Hemrich assured the community that the RCMP is fully committed to ensuring its safety. “We’re working hard to make sure that this community is safe,” he declared with determination in his voice. The police have provided a hotline for anyone with information or concerns related to the investigation.
As the investigation unfolds, the residents of Prince Rupert are left grappling with the aftermath of this devastating event. This tragedy serves as a stark reminder that no community is immune to senseless acts of violence. Nevertheless, in the face of adversity, the city remains united, unyielding, and determined to heal.
