Dangerous suspect subject of Kelowna RCMP manhunt

WEST KELOWNA – Gunshots were fired during a violent home invasion in West Kelowna this past weekend and RCMP have identified one of the suspects.

RCMP say two men armed with guns forced their way into a home in the 3000 block of Ensign Way in West Kelowna at about 3 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 23.

One of the men struck and injured a woman living there who was transported to hospital for medical assessment and treatment of non life-threatening injuries, according to an RCMP media release.

As the suspects fled the home, shots were fired. They got away in a vehicle later seized by police.

One of the suspects has been identified as John Michael Aronson of  Kelowna. He was already wanted on multiple outstanding unrelated warrants, and has now been charged with offences related to the home invasion. Additional warrants have been issued for his arrest.

“In order to further the police investigation, the West Kelowna RCMP is seeking the public’s assistance in locating John Michael Aronson,” Cpl. Jesse O’Donaghey says in the release. “If spotted, the public is cautioned not to approach him and urged to immediately contact their local police, as Aronson has a history of violence and should be considered dangerous.”

“Investigators believe the incident was targeted and not a random attack,” O’Donaghey says.

Anyone with any additional information is asked to contact the West Kelowna RCMP General Investigations Section at 250-768-2880, or remain anonymous by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477, leaving a tip online at www.crimestoppers.net or by texting your tip to CRIMES (274637) ktown.

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