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UPDATE: See updated story here - RCMP confirm armed robbery at Garden of Eden
UPDATE 5:20 p.m. KelownaNow interviewed one of the employees of the Garden of Eden. She reported that she messaged her co-worker in the building and was told that two masked men (white males) entered the Garden of Eden with weapons and bear spray to rob the premise. She was told by her co-worker that a shot was fired into the floor during the robbery.
KelownaNow is working to confirm the eye witness reports with police.
Residents are now able to access and exit the Chapman Parkade on Lawrence street. Police are also allowing access to vehicles parked between Pandosy St. and Water St. with permission.
UPDATE: 5:09 p.m. An eye witness reported that they saw a female exit the Garden of Eden building with her hands up. They say they saw three armed police enter the building after the female exited.
UPDATE: Police with canine units have moved to Richter Street in search of suspect(s).
Pandosy to Water Street has been closed off to all pedestrians and traffic.
Police advising people to avoid the downtown area until further notice.
There is a large police presence in the areas of Leon and Lawrence Avenues, and Water Street.
KelownaNow has a reporter near the scene trying to gather more information.
We will update as we have more information.
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