(Update) Improvised explosive devices found in camper: Barrie police

Courtesy Barrie360.com

By Ian MacLennan, November 20, 2024

Barrie police confirm that several apparent improvised explosive devices (IED) were located within an RV that was at the centre of a nearly 16-hour standoff at a Bayfield Street parking lot.

After the arrest of a suspect, police said the Barrie Police Explosives Disposal Unit was able to neutralize or remove the devices from the scene.

A 43-year-old Barrie man surrendered to police around 4 a.m. Wednesday and was transported to hospital for medical attention. Police said he will be facing multiple criminal charges but no details have been provided.

The standoff began around noon on Tuesday when police said they received information about an individual in crisis who was in an RV with a gun.

Police responded to the parking lot in the area of Bayfield and Heather Streets next to the Springwater Marketplace where they made contact with the person inside the vehicle.

“At that time, the male discharged a firearm, but thankfully no one was injured,” according to a police news release. “Nearby homes and businesses were evacuated out of an abundance of caution, but all evacuations have now been lifted.”

During the standoff, police were assisted by the tactical support unit and crisis negotiators, while Ontario Provincial Police provided overnight relief.

“Police would like to thank the public for their patience throughout this challenging situation, as we worked to bring it to a safe conclusion,” the news release stated.