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Neighbour dispute leads to highway closure southeast of Witset

Neighbour allegedly shoots and kills dog
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Highway 16 halfway between Smithers and Witset was closed due to a police incident on March 29. (Seth Forward photo)

Highway 16 was closed during the morning hours of March 29 between Smithers and Witset after an argument between neighbours had the Smithers RCMP and the Emergency Response Team involved.

Corporal Madonna Saunderson said shortly after 7 a.m. police responded to a report of a dispute between neighbours.

She said it was reported that one person threatened another with a firearm.

There were allegations made that one neighbour’s dog attacked an animal belonging to the other neighbour. One shot was fired, striking and killing the dog.

The armed neighbour returned to their residence.

Police made attempts to have the individual come out of the home but were unsuccessful.

Due to the presence of a firearm, officers set up containment on the residence and the Emergency Response Team was called.

Saunderson said out of an abundance of caution, Highway 16 was closed to all traffic. Two people were later arrested without further incident and the highway was reopened.

The investigation is ongoing.

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Marisca Bakker

About the Author: Marisca Bakker

Marisca was born and raised in Ontario and moved to Smithers almost ten years ago on a one-year contract.
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