Peter DeGroot : Slocan suspect described as disliking authority

Police in Slocan Lake are issuing an appeal to the suspect in the Slocan City manhunt to turn himself in.

RCMP say Peter DeGroot, 45, exchanged gunfire with police and he is considered armed and dangerous. Police have been searching for him since Thursday.

Police have searched a number of areas, including some that have been identified through tips received from the public, however Peter DeGroot T has not been located. Officers have encountered rugged terrain around the somewhat remote, rural town, along with other challenges in this dynamic and evolving event. The land and air search efforts continue with the intent to locate Peter and to peacefully resolve the situation.

“We appreciate the public’s assistance and patience as we find the right balance between limiting or opening areas around Slocan,” says Chief Supterintendent Frank Smart, Southeast District Commander. “It is important that we make informed decisions that keep public and officer safety at the forefront.”

Although the restrictions to most of the village have been relaxed, the RCMP will continue to maintain a presence in and around the townsite as the safety of the public is paramount. There continues to be no public access to an area West of the river while police continue their search and parallel investigation.

“We have not eliminated the possibility that Peter can hear our updates or access media coverage – so we are issuing this appeal directly to Peter,” continues Smart. “We want to ensure this situation ends peacefully and so we ask you to connect with police, and come in, so we can talk.”

As the search unfolds, we continue to ask for public information regarding Peter DeGroot He is described as: Caucasian male, 45 years old, 6 ft 1 in (185 cm), 170 lbs (77 kg), with short brown hair, blue eyes, and glasses. He appears to be balding

We would like to thank the mayor, and the residents of Slocan, for their ongoing assistance and support.

Anyone with information related to DeGroot’s movements or sightings are asked to call 9-1-1.

Agencies/Canadajournal