Courtenay鈥檚 Mayor, Bob Wells, has issued a statement in response to the stabbing that occured on Wednesday, Sept. 4 on Sixth Street.

鈥淓veryone deserves to feel safe in our community and I commend all involved for bringing this situation to a quick resolution. My heart goes out to those directly impacted by this incident, with gratitude there were no reports of serious physical injuries,鈥� said Wells.

The mayor clarifies that the assault was not connected to the Connect Centre in any way and that the youth suspect that was arrested was unknown to the police. 

鈥淥ur Council takes public safety seriously and has been making investments to support the tools we need to respond to community issues, with $8.6 million budgeted in 2024 alone for police services. This also includes working with the RCMP on initiatives such as downtown foot patrols,鈥� said Wells.

Wells advises that he and council have met many times with provincial ministers, ministry staff and Island Health and worked with agencies to advocate for more support for the community. 

鈥淲e have received important funding and housing units housing over the years and are considering the approval of a purpose-built shelter, day services and supportive housing project, but there are still gaps for those with the most serious need,鈥� said Wells.

The province has made a commitment to the Comox Valley for more complex care beds. 

鈥� We remain hopeful that additional supports are coming to help,鈥� said Wells.