Update: Arrest in downtown Whitehorse related to firearms calls: name and charges now available

May 5, 2023
Whitehorse, Yukon

News release

Update, May 9, 2023:

On May 5, 2023, Whitehorse RCMP general duty police officers and other supporting units arrested Derek Patterson, age 33 of Whitehorse, related to this file. He had his first court appearance on May 6 and is charged with the following weapons offences:

  • Careless use of a firearm, section 86(1) Criminal Code;
  • Possession of a weapon for dangerous purpose, section 88 Criminal Code;
  • Carrying concealed weapon, section 90 Criminal Code;
  • Possession of firearm knowing its possession is unauthorized, section 92(1) Criminal Code.

He was held in custody pending further court appearances.

Safety was top of mind for the officers who responded to this call, and Whitehorse RCMP appreciated the cooperation and support from the public during the investigation. As this matter is now before the courts, no further information will be shared.

Original, May 5, 2023:

One man is in custody after police responded to a firearms call in downtown Whitehorse.

At 11:00am on May 5, 2023, Whitehorse RCMP received multiple calls about a person believed to have a firearm in the 500 block of Alexander Street. Uniform and plain-clothes officers attended immediately to contain the area. A man matching the description was located and arrested within minutes of police arrival, and a firearm was located nearby and seized by police. The man arrested will be held for a court appearance on May 6, 2023.

Police do not believe there are other outstanding suspects related to this file.

Officers appreciated cooperation from the public during their response to this file. Police blocked access to a section of Alexander Street for a short time to ensure public safety, and occupants of nearby homes in the effected area were directed to remain inside temporarily. Anyone with surveillance footage or doorbell cameras in the area is encouraged to contact Whitehorse RCMP at 867 667 5551.

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Contact information

Cst. C. McCann
Whitehorse RCMP
4100 4th Avenue, Whitehorse, YT

File number: 2023-606955

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