Metro Vancouver standoff creates traffic mayhem as bridge is closed

NEW WESTMINSTER, B.C. – Commuter gridlock has gripped a large area of Metro Vancouver as New Westminster Police have shut down a major bridge.

The Queensborough Bridge, linking Queensborough and New Westminster, has been closed since shortly after 6 a.m. as officers deal with an incident near the Starlight Casino at the extreme eastern tip of Lulu Island, on the north arm of the Fraser River.

Patrons of the casino have been ordered to remain in the building while the incident is handled in, or near, the casino parking lot.

Police have released few details about the standoff but confirm it is not a hostage taking, and they also say there is no immediate threat to the general public.

Closure of the Queensborough Bridge has caused massive delays along Highway 91, the East-West Connector, and on other bridges carrying commuters into Vancouver during the morning rush.

Negotiators are working to resolve the standoff and police are urging everyone to stay out of the area until further notice. (CKNW, News1130, The Canadian Press)