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Charlottetown police increase presence after Ottawa shootings

Deputy Police Chief Gary McGuigan said the Charlottetown Police Services will remain vigilant, and have increased their presence in certain areas after Wednesday’s shootings on Parliament Hill in Ottawa.

He also asked the public to report anything they think might be of a concern.

“We would ask anyone that has witnessed or may witness any incidents that may pose a risk to national security to call 1-800-420-5805.”

On Wednesday morning, a member of the Canadian Forces was shot and killed while standing guard at the National War Memorial in Ottawa. A man then seized a car and drove to the doors of Parliament Hill’s Centre Block.

A gunman was killed inside Parliament after being shot by the House of Common’s sergeant-at-arms. There were reports of 30 to 50 shots being fired.

“Since the incident in Ottawa we have our own members on heightened security alert,” said McGuigan.

“We’ve also increased our police presence in and around military properties and government properties.”

McGuigan confirmed there is an officer stationed outside Province House in Charlottetown.

“We will continue to have that increased police presence until we hear from Ottawa and find out exactly what the issues are there and how we should be reacting to those.”

When asked by CBC News if it was a national directive for the increased police presence or if it was something the police department took upon itself, McGuigan said they had been in contact with their policing partners in Prince Edward Island and shared information.

“I know that other police agencies are on a heightened alert as a precaution [and] that’s a step we took. We can either scale our presence up or scale it back depending on what comes out of Ottawa,” McGuigan said.

Island representatives safe

P.E.I. Premier Robert Ghiz released a statement. "Today’s events at the National War Memorial and on Parliament Hill have shocked and saddened all Canadians.”

“On behalf of all Islanders, our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the soldier who was killed while on duty and to all those affected by these tragic events. We want to thank all law enforcement agencies and first responders who continue to risk their lives to ensure our safety."

Opposition Leader Steven Myers said he shared the shock and sympathy Canadians are feeling at today's disturbing events.

“Thoughts and prayers are with those injured and affected, especially any Islanders working or attending school or visiting in Ottawa.”

A P.E.I. senator and four MPs were safely locked down Wednesday.

A security notice was posted on Malpeque MP Wayne Easter's constituency office door in Hunter River Wednesday recommending employees stay vigilant, lock the doors or go home if possible.