The Delta Police investigation continues into the fireworks chaos involving hundreds of youths in South Delta last Halloween night.
Deputy Chief Harj Sidhu told the Delta Police Board at its Jan. 18 meeting that a lot of video footage has been gathered regarding the incident at South Delta Secondary and Dennison Park.
An estimated 400 youths engaged in a wild fireworks fight that resulted in several injuries to the participants as well as police officers.
Noting several youths were interviewed, Sidhu told the police board that it has been difficult to positively identify suspects in the video footage.
However, they have “an understanding of who did it” but charges have not been laid.
The department is also conducting an operational review of its response to the incident, said Sidhu.
Following the incident, Mayor George Harvie announced that he asked the city manager to coordinate a meeting with the Delta Police Chief, Delta Fire Chief and the school district to review the issue and collaborate on potential fireworks bylaw amendments.
In a letter to parents, Delta School District Superintendent Doug Sheppard described the disruption, injuries and property damage caused by youth as extremely reckless and dangerous behaviour.
Sheppard said it seemed that many of the incidents were organized and deliberate.
“Respectfully, we ask you to talk with your child(ren) about the need for them to make safe and responsible choices, and to avoid getting drawn into the ‘mob mentality’ that can take over when large groups of youth gather…” his letter in part read.
He also noted the irresponsible behaviour of the youths involved put a significant drain on both Delta Police Department and City of Delta resources.
