Reported Abbotsford rooftop shooter was pest-control worker, police say

A man reported as a possible shooter on a rooftop in Abbotsford on Tuesday was a pest-control employee conducting bird-control work, police say.

Several residents saw the man walking on the roof with what appeared to be a rifle and called 911. Abbotsford Police Department said there was no immediate threat to public safety in this case.

Police were called shortly before 6 p.m. to an apartment building on Whatcom Road, south of Mountain Drive. More than 16 officers from across the city responded, contained the area and detained the man. Police said he was cooperative and the detention occurred without incident.

Officers determined the employee was using an air rifle for bird control. Notices had been posted inside the apartment building, police said, but neighbouring businesses, residents and members of the public in the surrounding area had not been notified.

Abbotsford Police thanked those who called 911, saying timely reports of an apparent firearm allow officers to assess risks quickly and take appropriate action.