Winnipeg police are investigating a flooding incident at their downtown headquarters that led to the arrest of a 51-year-old man and a 36-year-old woman. The incident occurred Saturday evening at approximately 6:00 p. m. in the tower portion of the complex located at 266 Graham Avenue.
Initial reports suggested a water main break or burst pipes, but further investigation revealed the two individuals allegedly opened several emergency water supply valves in the upper stairwells of the building. This caused significant water pressure to build up rapidly, flooding stairwells and other areas. Constable Dani McKinnon described the scene as being like "floodgates basically opened up".
The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service responded and secured the valves. Police located the suspects just after 11 p. m. in the 200 block of Graham Avenue. Both are facing six counts of mischief over $5,000 and have been released on undertakings. Constable McKinnon stated that the extent of the damage is still being assessed, and it will take some time to fully evaluate.
In-person reporting at 245 Smith Street is temporarily closed due to the damage. This is not the first time the Winnipeg Police headquarters has been damaged by flooding; in 2014, a rainstorm caused $4.1 million in damage while the complex was under construction. The ongoing investigation will determine how the individuals gained access to the valves and the full extent of the damage.
