Recent shootings in Fort St. John are linked to a gang-related drug turf war in the Peace Region, according to RCMP.
Early Wednesday morning, shots were fired near the 9500 block of 96th Avenue, injuring one person. Later, Mounties arrested 22-year-old Evan Kenneth Love, who was wearing body armor and carrying a loaded firearm.
That night, a search of Love’s home uncovered a shotgun, a 3D-printed handgun, and suspected drug trafficking items.
Love faces nine charges, including assault, threats, unauthorized firearm possession, and breaching a release order.
Sergeant Ian Rissanen confirmed the shootings are part of an ongoing gang conflict involving local and interprovincial groups, driven by disputes over drug sales and control of the region.
While the incidents are targeted, RCMP stress that gunfire endangers public safety. Investigations continue as officers work to disrupt illegal gun and drug activity and hold those involved accountable.
-with files from CJDC