Niagara police arrest armed man after lockdown in West Lincoln

Niagara police have arrested an armed man in West Lincoln Monday after residents were instructed to shelter in place and not answer their doors that morning.

Officers say an intoxicated man was seen at a home in a West Lincoln neighbourhood at around 7:45 a.m.

The man had left the house in a white Ford pick-up truck before officers had arrived.

Investigators say the man had made statements that raised concern for his personal safety and the safety of the community, and believed the man was in possession of a firearm.

Police from several task units including the K-9 Unit, the Air Support Unit and the Marine Unit, began searching the area.

The area of concern was on Bismark Road between Caistorville and Smithville roads.

A nearby school was placed in a “hold and secure” status as a precaution during the search.

Officers soon found the white Ford pick-up truck abandoned and determined the man had entered a nearby wooded area.

Investigators found firearm magazines and additional ammunition during the search.

Police were able to find the man and peacefully negotiated his surrender.

Officers have charged Christopher Morley with possessing a weapon for a dangerous purpose.

Morley is in custody and is scheduled to appear at a St. Catharines courthouse Tuesday.

The investigation remains ongoing, with more charges to be expected.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 905-688-4111, dial option 3, ext. 1009528.

Members of the community who wish to provide information anonymously can go to Crime Stoppers of Niagara online or by calling 1-800-222-8477.

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