Police have confirmed the death of a man struck by a vehicle in Skidegate earlier this week is now being investigated as a homicide.
A 32-year-old Skidegate man has been arrested in connection with the April 22 incident, which occurred around 1:17 p.m. in the 200 block of Front Street. Police say the victim was struck by a vehicle and later died from his injuries.
“From the outset of this collision, this was investigated as a targeted attack, and at no time did the Daajing Giids RCMP feel there was a risk to the greater community or its members,” said Sgt. Chris Manseau, detachment commander of the Daajing Giids RCMP.
North District Major Crime is leading the investigation, with support from local RCMP, and officers remain on scene and in the area. Police say residents should expect to see an increased presence for the next few days.
The RCMP has also responded to concerns shared online about the timeline of the investigation.
“All investigators are working diligently, around the clock over the past few days, gathering all available evidence and speaking to witnesses,” said Manseau. “While an arrest is certainly a milestone in any investigation, charge approval is always the ultimate goal. It’s important that we take the time we need to ensure a successful prosecution.”
Staff Sgt. Kris Clark of the B.C. RCMP earlier confirmed that major crime investigators arrived in Skidegate on April 22 and continue to actively work the file.
“I understand the concerns of the community and I want to reassure you that we are working quickly; however, investigations like this take time and we must be mindful to gather the necessary evidence to support a successful prosecution,” Clark said.
“With that in mind, no news from the RCMP does not mean a lack of progress, rather that we are simply preserving the integrity of the investigation. For privacy reasons, we cannot identify anyone who may be subject to an investigation until such time as charges have been laid.”
Anyone with information, including CCTV or dash camera footage, is asked to contact the Daajing Giids RCMP at 250-559-4421.
On April 22, the Village of Skidegate passed an emergency resolution enacting a 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. curfew. The curfew will remain in effect until rescinded by the Skidegate Band Council.
