Update 2:10 pm
A suspect is in custody following reports of an active shooter with a long gun in the northern B.C. community of Vanderhoof.
An emergency alert issued in the small district municipality, located about 100 kilometres west of Prince George, has also been cancelled.
Authorities said the tense situation began with reports that a shooter targeted the Vanderhoof RCMP detachment on Columbia Street at around 12:15 p.m.
The suspect was then believed to be driving around the area in a white Ford pickup.
While the incident was unfolding, the RCMP urged the community's approximately 4,400 residents to "stay inside or shelter in place."
"While we respect the public may be concerned about family or friends within the area, we ask you to not attend the area and allow first responders to address the emergency," the B.C. RCMP said in a news release at around 1 p.m.
The situation also prompted an emergency text alert that was sent to people in Vanderhoof as well as those heading towards the community.
- with files from CTV -
The RCMP is responding to reports of an active shooter with a long gun in the small northern B.C. community of Vanderhoof.
The gunman reportedly targeted the Vanderhoof RCMP detachment on Columbia Street at around 12:15 p.m., then drove around the area.
The approximately 4,400 residents of the district municipality, located about 100 kilometres west of Prince George, have been told to "stay inside or shelter in place" until the situation is resolved.
"Lock your doors and refrain from leaving your home or place of business at this time. All others need to avoid the downtown area and follow all police directions or restrictions," the B.C. RCMP said in a news release.
"While we respect the public may be concerned about family or friends within the area, we ask you to not attend the area and allow first responders to address the emergency."
Authorities believe the suspect is alone and driving a white Ford pickup truck with an extended cab.
"The individual should be considered armed and dangerous. If you see the suspect or the vehicle DO NOT APPROACH. Call 911 immediately," the RCMP said.
Mounties also asked people in the community to avoid posting pictures or videos that could disclose officers' whereabouts or tactics as the tense situation unfolds.
Officials issued a localized emergency alert for Vanderhoof, and anyone in the community or nearing the community could receive a text alert informing them of the situation, the RCMP said.
- with files from CTV -