Police arrest drunk, armed shooter in Iqaluit

(Updated March 2)

Police have arrested and charged Iqaluit resident Tiivi Qiatsuk in connection with an early morning shooting incident that rattled residents in the Q block of the city’s Arctic College residence March 1.

When Iqaluit RCMP responded to what they thought was a routine call at 1:40 a.m. that morning, officers were faced with an intoxicated man brandishing a firearm “who then discharged it,” said a March 1 RCMP news release.

Qiatsuk surrendered peacefully to police at about 5:30 a.m.. No one was hurt.

Qiatsuk now faces eight charges, including assault of a police officer with a firearm, unlawfully discharigng a firearm and uttering threats. He is scheduled to appear in court March 2.

But police are using this incident to emphasize that callers to the RCMP should clearly state what’s going on.

Callers should tell police whether or not any weapons are involved, who’s at the scene and if anyone there needs medical attention.

Providing this kind of information minimizes danger to police and members of the public, the news release said.

“Police can also plan on how they would attend and approach each call-out in any community.”

The RCMP also reminds the public to stay indoors during these types of incidents for their own safety.

Anyone with information about the March 1 incident in Iqaluit can call (867)979-0123 or call Crime Stoppers at 1(800) 222-8477(TIPS) and be eligible for a reward up to $2,000, and remain anonymous.