RCMP swarm Vernon Econolodge, kick in doors

Photo: Sheldon Lee

UPDATE: 9:50 a.m.

Vernon RCMP are saying little about an incident at the Econolodge in Vernon this morning.

"The activity at the location is part of an ongoing police investigation. We can confirm there is no risk to the public, and we are unable to provide any further details at this time," North Okanagan RCMP spokesperson Const. Chris Terleski said in an email.

What prompted police action, including the presence of the RCMP Emergency Response Team, is still unknown.

UPDATE: 9:45 a.m.

Police are focusing their attention on two rooms on the second floor of the Vernon Econolodge after an Emergency Response Team incident this morning.

The tactical squad has left the scene, and three units remain on scene.

Officers are focusing on two rooms on the upper level of the motel.

A neighbour tells Castanet police are seen frequently there.

Last month, RCMP responded in force to reports of a firearm incident at the Econolodge.

Nearby residents were evacuated while police contained the area and a suspect surrendered, but no gun was found.

ORIGINAL: 9:20 a.m.

Police action is reported at the Vernon Econolodge on 32nd Street.

The RCMP Emergency Response Team was seen this morning kicking in two motel room doors, Sheldon Lee posted to the Vernon Rant and Rave (uncensored) Facebook group.

Officers were heavily armed and had dogs with them, and at least one person could be seen leaving a room with his hands up.

The team also had its armoured tactical vehicle on site.

It's not yet known what prompted the police action.

"Never a dull moment round here," Lee wrote on Facebook. "Come outside to hear 'open up!' then booted two doors beside each other."

Officers reportedly also smashed a window to toss tear gas into one of the rooms.

Castanet has a reporter headed to the scene and has reached out to RCMP for more details.