Illegal fireworks disrupted airport operations, Abbotsford police say

A stock photo of fireworks. (pexels.com/@mi1kel)

Police in Abbotsford responded to dozens of calls about illegal fireworks overnight – including incidents that caused flight disruptions at the city’s airport, the department said Wednesday.

Spokesperson Sgt. Paul Walker issued a statement saying he is aware “excessive” use of fireworks recently is causing “frustration for residents.”

Officers responded to roughly 50 reports about illegal fireworks in neighbourhoods across the city between 5 p.m. Tuesday and 5 a.m. Wednesday, the statement said, noting there is a bylaw that prohibits people discharging pyrotechnics.

“In several instances, these fireworks disrupted flight operations at the Abbotsford Airport – a matter of significant concern for public safety and aviation,” Walker wrote.

The calls created additional pressure on an already strained shift during which additional officers had to be called in, according to the statement. Among the 128 non-fireworks-related incidents that kept police busy were a “border runner,” assaults, mental health crises, missing persons, impaired drivers, and a sudden death.

“AbbyPD officers, in partnership with City of Abbotsford bylaw enforcement officers, continue to actively enforce the community-wide ban on fireworks,” Walker wrote.

“We appreciate your co-operation as we work to address these violations, maintain public safety, and prioritize calls for service based on urgency and risk to the community.”