‘Suspicious circumstance’ closes Abbotsford courthouse

The Abbotsford courthouse has reopened after police were called to the area for a “suspicious circumstance” Monday morning.

According to police, officers received a call described as “vague in nature” just after 9 a.m.

The incident  forced police to close the roadway by the courthouse “for the safety of the public and officers,” noting it is a “heavy trafficked area.”

Trethewey Street was closed between George Ferguson Way and Simon Avenue, while Veterans Way — where the courhouse is located — was also shut down.

“Officers were quickly on scene and have done a walk through and combthrough of the area,” Const. Art Stele told CityNews just after 11 a.m.

He notes the courthouse, as well as some neighbouring businesses, were evacuated as a precaution.

Just after 11:30 a.m., police confirmed the threat was deemed “non-credible” following an extensive search of the area.

“The identity of the caller remains unknown to police currently,” an update from police reads. “Staff and the public were allowed to return to the area to resume business.”