Saint John police investigate after 2 men shot on city's west side
Saint John police are investigating after two men with gunshot wounds showed up at the hospital 30 minutes after a report of gunfire on the city's lower west side Tuesday night.
Officers responded to a 911 call about shots being fired in the area of Market Place around 9 p.m., Saint John Police Force spokesperson Jim Hennessy said Wednesday morning.
At 9:30 p.m., two men, aged 34 and 30, arrived at the Saint John Regional Hospital with gunshot wounds and staff notified police, said Hennessy.
"Preliminary evidence from the investigation indicates that this was not a random shooting," he said in an emailed statement.
Hennessy was not able to provide any information about the condition of the men or whether they are still in hospital.
It's not clear whether the preliminary investigation indicates if the men were shot by each other or by someone else. Hennessy would only say the investigation continues.
There is no word yet on any arrests or suspects.
On Wednesday, there was a heavy police presence in the area. Market Place remained cordoned off between Tilley Lane and Tower Street, with a white Volkswagen parked behind the yellow caution tape near the ball field.
A forensic identification officer was observed taking photographs at the scene while other officers were seen going door to door, talking to area residents.
Hennessy did not say what, if anything police found when they arrived on the scene on Tuesday night.
He also declined to say whether the shooting occurred inside a building or outdoors.
No information about the type of gun or guns involved has been provided.
The major crime unit is conducting the investigation, said Hennessy.
Hospital access temporarily restricted
Horizon Health Network spokesperson Kris McDavid confirmed the men were treated in the emergency department but declined to comment on their status or provide any details about the number or location of their wounds, due to patient confidentiality and the ongoing investigation.
After staff contacted police, they immediately restricted access to the hospital as a precaution to ensure the safety of patients and staff, said McDavid.
Staff remained in close contact with police "until it was determined there was no longer any risk," and the temporary restrictions were lifted at around 11:30 p.m.
"We would like to commend our staff for their work, as they acted swiftly and decisively during this situation," McDavid said in an emailed statement.
Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call police at 648-3333 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
