Police say there’s no evidence to suggest that a weapons offense occurred near the Waterford Hospital, but the RNC will continue to investigate the report and stay in the area.

The RNC had responded to a potential weapons offence in the area Monday morning. Several schools in the area were put on lockdown as a precaution, but the lockdowns have since been lifted.

Shortly after 10:30 a.m., RNC patrol officers responded to the area of Waterford Valley in St. John’s. Responding officers were informed that gunshots had been heard. The Waterford Hospital and several schools in the area were secured during the police response.

Multiple units of the RNC were engaged to support RNC Patrol Services’ investigation. Officers contained the area, canvassed for witnesses, checked vacant properties, patrolled the community, searched public trails, parks and open spaces, and used other investigative techniques. 

While searching the trail system along Waterford Bridge Road, patrol officers located fireworks that had recently been discharged.

The investigation did not render any evidence that a weapons offence had occurred in the area.

⚠️UPDATE⚠️

At this stage, there is no evidence to suggest a weapons offence occurred in the Waterford Valley area. Officers remain in the area gathering information related to the report.

The RNC extends gratitude to the community for your cooperation.#nltraffic

— Royal Newfoundland Constabulary (@RNC_PoliceNL) October 30, 2023