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(KIM ANDERSON / iNFOnews.ca)

RCMP officers were shot at during traffic stop in Penticton yesterday morning.

The shooting happened during an impaired driving investigation shortly after 1 a.m. yesterday, June 28, according to an RCMP press release. The incident took place near the intersection of Peach Rock Road and Green Mountain Road.

While officers were conducting the investigation, a red SUV was driving west on Green Mountain Road and approached the scene.

Officers assumed the driver was simply observing the encounter and paid little attention to the SUB. But it wasn’t long before they heard gunshots being fired in their direction. It was believed to be coming from the SUV.

Officers took cover and watched the SUV drive westbound on Green Mountain Road. One of the cop cars was riddled with bullet holes, RCMP said.

“Thankfully, none of our officers or nearby residents and pedestrians who were outside at the time were injured,” Penticton RCMP spokesperson Const. James Grandy said in the release. “This was a very clear disregard for police and public safety. It further highlights the dangers our frontline officers are facing each day while serving our communities.”

Mayor John Vassilaki called the shooting a reckless and unprovoked attack.

“I’m extremely grateful that no officers or members of the public were injured in this attack," Vassilaki said in a written statement. "Penticton residents and visitors need to feel safe and our RCMP officers are our frontline of defence."

If you witnessed this incident, or have any other information, you’re asked to call the Penticton RCMP at 250-492-4300. Or remain completely anonymous by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

— This story was updated at 11:57 a.m. Wednesday, June 29, 2022, with a statement from the mayor.

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