Vancouver: Police are investigating a shooting in the Downtown Eastside that sent at least two people to hospital on Thursday afternoon.
Police said witnesses called 911 to report firing of shots near East Hastings and Columbia streets just before 4:30 pm.
“Officers flooded the area and located a victim with gunshot wounds, while several people were seen fleeing the area on foot,” Vancouver police said.
The victim was taken to hospital by paramedics, and shortly after, a second person who had also been shot arrived at the emergency room, according to a press release issued by the Vancouver Police.
“Responding officers were faced with a chaotic scene. Someone had obviously been shot, but it was unclear who was involved,” said Constable Tania Visintin.
“Officers worked quickly to secure the crime scene and ensure that the public was safe,” she added.
The police said eight people were arrested and have since been released pending further investigation.
Investigators believe this was a targeted shooting.