Keremeos RCMP responded to a complaint of shots fired at a Seventh Avenue residence across from Memorial Park on Monday, December 26.
Police surrounded the residence, evacuating nearby homes as a precaution. Soon after, a male exited the residence, got into a pick up truck and fled the scene at a high rate of speed.
RCMP pursued the driver, who drove three blocks east, then back three blocks, coming to a stop after crashing into the front lawn of his own home.
The man got out of the truck, brandishing a machete, threatening police officers who were approaching him. They managed to get the man to surrender after several minutes of negotiation. There were no injuries to the public, police, or the suspect.
Fifty-two year old Kermeos resident George A. R. Poulin was arrested and is now in custody following a court appearance on Dec 28. Charges of careless use of a firearm, possession of a restricted weapon while prohibited, dangerous driving, and flight from police were recommended to the Crown.
Poulin has since been remanded to custody for a 30 day psychological exam. His next court appearance will be Jan. 25, 2012.
