Image Credit: CFJC Today / File

By Dave Barry

Suspect identified

Saturday’s fatal shooting is part of the growing violence within the Kamloops drug scene

Feb 15, 2021 | 5:14 PM

KAMLOOPS – RCMP say the suspect in Saturday night’s fatal shooing in Kamloops, knew the victim. Investigators are concerned the killing signals an increase in the level of violence associated with low-end drug dealers and debt collectors in the area.

“Although the circumstances surrounding this murder are still under investigation, it’s the same type of violence we have experienced in Kamloops before, involving low-end participants of the illegal drug trade who use violence as a business practice,” said RCMP Serious Crime Sergeant, Nestor Baird.

Mounties were called to the Howard Johnson Inn on the 500 block of Columbia Street at 7:50 p.m. They arrived to find the victim in one of the room, dead from a gun shot wound. Investigators quickly determined the killing was connected to the local drug scene.

The investigation is being led by the RCMP Serious Crime Unit. Investigators believe the victim had been targeted and don’t believe there is an immediate safety concern to the general public.

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Investigators taped off an area around the back of the Inn while investigators searched for evidence. They also investigated two rooms at the Star Lodge, several blocks away on Columbia Street. Forensic investigators have been pouring evidence from the two locations.

Police are also speaking with those who live in the neighbourhood and are asking businesses and members of the public to examine any video they collected around the time of the killing, to see if they captured anything suspicious.

“If you are involved in the drug trade at any level, now is the time to rethink the choices you are making and to reach out to other people and agencies that can help you leave that lifestyle behind,” added Sergeant Baird.

The name of the victim has not been released.

Mounties are asking anyone with information about the shooting or video evidence, to contact Kamloops RCMP at 250-828-3000 or Crime Stoppers. and reference file number 2021-4173.