HOLD AND SECURE LIFTED IN BEATRICE TODAY AFTER ‘DISTRESSED’ MAN STILL AT LARGE AFTER INCIDENT FRIDAY NIGHT
Mark Clairmont | MuskokaTODAY.com
BRACEBRIDGE — The OPP lifted a shelter-in-place order early today in the Beatrice Townline Road area of north Bracebridge after a call about an armed man “in distress” last night.
Affected residents may resume their regular activities, but are encouraged to stay alert and report any suspicious activity to police, said an OPP release just before 3 a.m. Saturday Aug. 2.
They say the individual previously considered armed and potentially dangerous has not been located, but is not believed to pose an immediate threat to public safety.
Residents are advised of an increased police presence in the area as the investigation continues.
The shelter-in-place order was put activated at approximately 9:30 p.m. Friday Aug. 1, as officers responded to a call involving a potentially armed individual in distress. As a precaution, residents in the area were asked to remain indoors in a secured area while police conducted their response.
“We recognize the significant emotional impact that receiving a shelter in place can cause and appreciate the public’s patience as officers work to investigate and resolve the situation,” a release at 11:10 p.m. read.
If you have any information or see anything suspicious, contact OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or call 911 in an emergency. Should you wish to remain anonymous, you may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
Residents were told:
“If you are outside, seek shelter immediately. Secure your safety inside a building or another secure location.
“If you are inside a building, stay there and lock all doors and windows.
“If you encounter the suspect, do not engage or approach. Dial 9-1-1 immediately to advise police.
“If possible, close your curtains to avoid drawing attention to yourself or your family.
“If you are driving, proceed to your location. Do not make unnecessary stops. As soon as you arrive at your location, enter and immediately lock your doors.
“Do not engage with anyone suspicious.
“Follow all direction from officers on scene.
“Individuals not currently in the affected area are requested to avoid travelling there until further notice. Members of the public can expect an increased police presence and police continue their investigation.”
The OPP said they were taking every precaution necessary to resolve this situation. We ask all members of the public to take actions to protect their safety while police work to apprehend the individual.
Further information will be released as it becomes available.
Any person with information regarding the whereabouts of the suspect should immediately contact 1-888-310-1122. Should you wish to remain anonymous, you may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) where you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2,000.
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