Charges laid following New Westminster shooting

Police are seen investigating a shooting in New Westminster on Friday, Jan. 9.

Charges have been laid following a shooting in New Westminster, that shut down a large stretch of a downtown street earlier this year.

An officer was patrolling in the 100 block of Columbia Street around 3 a.m. on Jan. 9 when she found a man suffering from gunshot wounds.

The man was given first aid and taken to hospital, but the extent of his injuries has not been made public.

Columbia Street was closed for several hours through the morning commute, as the Major Crime Unit took over the investigation. Officers also investigated a second scene at Tipperary Park, but have not disclosed what they were looking for.

In a news release Monday, police say two suspects were arrested, and a loaded, prohibited firearm was also seized.

Amman Crafton, 38, of New Westminster has since been charged with one count of unauthorized possession of a restricted or prohibited firearm.

“This investigation has been a source of concern for the community,” said Sgt. Andrew Leaver.

“Our investigators worked diligently to identify those responsible and ensure evidence was gathered to support charges.”

Police say the suspects were released with strict court-ordered conditions, and that the investigation is still ongoing.