Cougar shot and killed on Nanaimo docks; believed to be same animal roaming Newcastle Island
NANAIMO — A cougar, believed to be the same one prowling Newcastle Island for nearly two weeks, was shot and killed by Nanaimo RCMP.
Cst. Gary O’Brien said they received numerous reports of a cougar roaming the docks and fish cleaning station at the Nanaimo Yacht Club below Stewart Ave. around 1:30 a.m. Wednesday, July 18.
He said when the cougar saw the officers, it jumped into the water and headed towards a pier with nearby condo units. That’s when officers made the decision to shoot the animal, which fell into the water after being shot.
O’Brien said it’s believed the animal had some interactions with people in the area and was showing no fear of humans.