OPP activity in Parham after fire, shooting

Update (Monday, Jun. 8, 2020): The suspect in this incident was apprehended at approximately 7 a.m. this morning. That story here.

Original article:

Members from several OPP detachments arrived in Parham, Ont. on Sunday night after a local church went up in flames and at least one person was shot.

As of 10:20 p.m. on Sunday, Jun. 7, 2020, residents in the area report a very large OPP presence in the area, as well as the sounds of active shooting. The shooter in question is still at large, and much of the activity is centralized at Highway 38 in Parham and Verona. The church that’s currently on fire is St. James Anglican Parish on Highway 38.

OPP have identified the suspect as 42-year-old Brian Daniel Mosher, of Central Frontenac. Mosher is white, approximately 188 centimetres (6 feet) tall, weighs 115 kilograms (255 lbs), and has grey hair. Mosher was last seen wearing a black shirt and beige shorts. He is considered dangerous and OPP instruct anyone who sees him not to approach, and instead call 9-1-1 immediately.

Residents in the area are reportedly sheltering in place, though it is unclear whether this is being done at direction of the OPP.

As of 11:10 p.m., Sunday, Jun. 7, 2020, the suspect remains at large. An OPP canine unit is currently searching for the suspect’s location. Residents in the area have reported multiple gunshots heard in the area. At least one firearm has been recovered behind the church. The fire remains active and has spread to at least two other buildings.

As of 11:50 p.m., 785 Hydro One customers are without power in the area. The estimated time of restoration is 2 a.m.

White Lake Road at Highway 38 and Eagle Lake Road at Highway 38 have been closed by the OPP.

Please avoid the area if at all possible.