A resident in Kelowna, B.C.’s Rutland neighbourhood found a suspicious package on Tuesday, leading to a large police response.
Around 1:30 p.m., the RCMP found and received a package from another country, described as “unexpected”.
On Wednesday, the RCMP stated that they consulted with multiple specialized agencies, including the Kelowna Fire Department, to safely examine the parcel and its contents.
The decision was made to consider the package hazardous until further analysis. RCMP and the Kelowna Fire Department wore hazmat suits while examining the package, isolating the civilian and police officers exposed to it, and cordoning off necessary areas for safety.
Residents expressed worry and confusion about the significant police presence at Rutland’s Centennial Park on Tuesday. They were particularly surprised to see RCMP members in hazmat suits. Information about the incident was not provided until Wednesday.
The RCMP confirmed the safety of the package and seized it for further analysis.
