Kokihara Highway closed due to ‘active and unfolding police incident’, says RCMP

The Coquihala Highway was closed in both directions due to “active and ongoing police incidents,” according to the RCMP.

A statement Wednesday said the highway is closed between Hope and Merritt, British Columbia.

“A large number of police resources from surrounding areas are being directed to the Juliet Bridge area just south of Merritt near the Kokihala Summit,” the statement read.

“Public citizens in the area are asked to avoid the area and refrain from posting police actions online.”

In an interview, RCMP Sgt. Josh Rhoda has declined to disclose details of the incident, but it is believed to be unrelated to the kidnapping and series of shootings in Merritt, British Columbia.

Drivers have been warned that delays of several hours are to be expected. According to DriveBC, the detour to Hope is Highway 3 and the detour to Merritt is Highway 5A to Highway 3.

More coming.