Gang activity is to blame for the latest violent act in Williams Lake, this time with a woman being robbed at gunpoint for $75 worth of groceries downtown early Sunday evening, said police.
Williams Lake Staff Sgt. Del Byron said a distraught 28-year-old victim flagged down police at the corner of Borland Street and 7th Avenue, across from Boitanio Park, at about 6:30 p.m.
The victim told police she had just been walking from Save-On-Foods to her sister's house with groceries in the back alley behind Denny's Restaurant when she was approached by four females flashing Indian Outlaw gang signs who began to verbally assault her and demand she hand over her possessions.
Byron said the victim told police she began fighting with her attackers until one produced a handgun and pointed it at her chest.
The victim then left her groceries and ran away, but tried to keep an eye on the suspects, who were last seen leaving the area through the Sandman Hotel parking lot and walking toward the back alley near the Boys and Girls Club.
Byron said police immediately established a perimeter and searched the area with the assistance of the police dog service, however, no suspects were located.
He noted the victim told police she was not a member of the IO's rival gang, the 712s, however, is believed to be dating a prolific offender and 712 gang member, which may have made her a target.
The suspects are described as First Nations females, one with a handgun and one with bear spray. The victim noted one suspect was wearing black pants with silver lettering and beading while another had a black Fox sweater on.
Byron said the victim did not recognize any of the suspects.
If anyone has information on this crime they are asked to contact CrimeStoppers or the local RCMP detachment at 250-392-6211.