Victoria police seized an improvised firearm, known as a “zip gun,” while following up on a reported stolen vehicle.
Police said a traffic officer spotted the vehicle parked in the 1700 block of Douglas Street early Monday afternoon.
The vehicle had been reported stolen the night before from the residence of a Royal Jubilee Hospital health-care worker.
The vehicle was running and a lone man was sitting behind the wheel. After more patrol officers arrived, officers moved in and arrested the man.
A subsequent search turned up the loaded zip gun capable of firing a 12-gauge shotgun shell. Also seized were drugs, stolen property and other weapons, including knives and a baton.
No injuries occurred during the arrest, but, due to medical concerns, the man was transported to Royal Jubilee Hospital and later released to police. The investigation continues and the suspect remains in custody.
If you have information about this incident, you are asked to call the police non-emergency line at 250-995-7654. To report anonymously, call Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (1-800-222-8477).
