Police investigating after gunshot victim dies near New Westminster park

A man is dead after a shooting near New Westminster’s Hume Park Saturday night.

New Westminster Police say they responded to reports of shots fired in the 600 block of East Columbia Street around 7:30 p.m.

The victim was pronounced dead at the scene after officers arrived.

A suspect was taken into custody without incident, and police say there’s no risk to the public.

Police say the shooting does not appear to be random. Homicide investigators from the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) have taken over the case.

The identities of the victim and suspect have not been disclosed by police, who are continuing to gather evidence.

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Mark Rathgeber, who lives in the area, said seeing such a violent act happen near the park is shocking.

“We’ve seen police in the area before but don’t really think much of it,” he said.

“There’s a homeless camp in this area too and they don’t seem to aggressive. But to hear about a shooting is a pretty big surprise for us.”

Anyone with information that may be helpful to investigators is asked to contact IHIT or Crime Stoppers.