The Premier’s Office says Andrew Furey was likely the intended target of a frightening incident in Deer Lake today.
RCMP say a man was arrested outside “the office of a current political candidate.” Officers seized a large number of various knives from inside his vehicle.
The Premier was campaigning in Labrador at the time.
The incident began shortly after 10 a.m. when police were notified of a man “acting in an unusual manner” and stating he was going to Deer Lake to “stop the election.” The suspect had also made references to firearms.
The man left Bonne Bay in a truck and was located by police north of Cormack on Route 430. They attempted to pull him over but the suspect continued toward Deer Lake at high speeds.
Police kept the vehicle in sight until it came to a stop outside a business, which hosted the candidate’s office in the town. The suspect was removed from the truck and arrested in the parking lot. Officers found and seized a number of knives that were in his vehicle, which was impounded.
In a statement, a spokesperson for the Premier describes it as a traumatic incident for everyone working and volunteering in the election.
“This is a traumatic incident, for everyone working and volunteering in Newfoundland and Labrador’s election. There is no place for violence in our society. We are fortunate to live in a free and democratic country, and the safety and well-being of all individuals is most important.”
The spokesperson says they’re connecting with the leadership of the other political parties and their team members in Deer Lake to offer support.
Police say the suspect, from Shoal Brook, remains in custody and will be charged with a number of criminal and traffic offences.
