A 34-year-old man faces multiple firearm-related charges after Monday’s shooting near Gateway SkyTrain and a Surrey police office.
Shooting near Gateway SkyTrain shocks Whalley area
A quiet Monday afternoon in Surrey’s Whalley neighbourhood turned tense when gunfire erupted near the Gateway SkyTrain Station and outside the District 1 Community Police Office. The incident happened around 3:13 p.m. on October 6, prompting an immediate police response. Witnesses reported hearing several shots near University Drive and 108 Avenue, only steps from the community police station.
Swift police response brings situation under control
Nearby Surrey Police Service (SPS) officers rushed to the scene after hearing shots fired. According to investigators, the suspect fled toward the police office, where additional gunfire was reported. No injuries were sustained by officers or the public.
Specialized units — including the Lower Mainland Integrated Emergency Response Team and the Integrated Police Dog Service — assisted in safely arresting the suspect outside the station.
Suspect identified and charged
Authorities have identified the suspect as Jose Digno Rodriguez Centeno, 34. He now faces five charges:
- Unauthorized possession of a firearm
- Pointing a firearm without lawful excuse
- Reckless discharge of a firearm
- Assault of a police officer
- Resisting or wilfully obstructing a police officer
Centeno remains in custody pending a court appearance later this week.
Police office temporarily closed for safety check
Following the arrest, officers closed the District 1 Community Police Office while the RCMP Explosive Disposal Unit examined a bag left behind by the suspect. Police confirmed the item contained nothing dangerous or suspicious. The office reopened to the public on Tuesday, October 7, with only minor damage visible — the front door glass had been taped over as a precaution.
Investigation continues; community urged to assist
The Surrey Police Service continues to investigate and is appealing for additional witnesses or footage. Anyone who was in the area of Gateway SkyTrain Station, 108 Avenue, King George Boulevard, or 107A Avenue between 2:30 p.m. and 4 p.m. Monday is asked to contact the SPS non-emergency line at 604-599-0502 and reference file 25-87819 (SP).
Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or www.solvecrime.ca.
Community returns to normal
By Tuesday afternoon, regular operations resumed at the Whalley police office. SPS officials thanked the public for their patience and cooperation, emphasizing that no ongoing threat remains. The investigation aims to determine the suspect’s motive as police work to reassure residents in the busy Whalley-Gateway corridor.
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