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Standoff between person in mental health crisis and police ends in Taser use

The union representing paramedics says ambulances were sitting empty due staff shortages following an overtime ban.

The Fort St. John RCMP were involved in a Taser incident after a person showed signs of a severe mental health crisis.

On the evening of September 17, police responded to a call near 86th Street and 85th Avenue in Fort St. John. A crisis negotiator, paramedics, and the fire department was also involved.

Officers engaged in a lengthy standoff with the individual experiencing mental health challenges.

The situation escalated, and a RCMP member deployed a Taser “out of concern for the individual,” as first responders believed the person might harm themselves.

Following the incident, the person was transported to hospital for treatment.