The courthouse in New Westminster, British Columbia, is open to the public again after people were evacuated from the surrounding area, including the Douglas College campus, due to a threat made within the building Tuesday morning.
As a precaution, streets were also closed to traffic.
The exact nature of the threat, received on Tuesday around 10:30 a.m., has still not been revealed by the authorities.
We consider every threat real until we can prove otherwise
said Sergeant Andrew Leaver of the New Westminster Police Service.
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People gather outside after Douglas College was evacuated due to a police incident at the courthouse in New Westminster, Tuesday, January 7, 2025.
Photo : - / Ben Nelms
He added that the operation is a team effort between several entities, including the Integrated Emergency Response Team and Greater Vancouver Police Dog Services. Transit police, firefighters and paramedics were also called in to assist.
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RCMP emergency response teams at the New Westminster courthouse on Tuesday, January 7, 2025.
Photo : - / Ben Nelms
Police have emphasized public safety, calling it a top priority. She asked people to be patient and follow the rules while she dealt with the situation.
We will provide updates as they become available
said Sergeant Leaver.
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