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A former Manitoba RCMP officer has been charged with theft and breach of trust after a driver reported that about $300 went missing during a traffic stop in Portage la Prairie. The officer, identified as Constable Ben Harder, resigned from the force earlier this year while under investigation. According to the RCMP, the alleged incident occurred on November 19, 2024, and was reported eight days later. The complaint prompted an internal investigation monitored by Manitoba’s Independent Investigation Unit. Former RCMP Officer Charged After Alleged Theft During Traffic Stop Investigators say the allegation stems from a November 19 traffic stop in Portage la Prairie, where about $300 was reported missing from a driver’s vehicle. The Manitoba RCMP West District launched an investigation after receiving the complaint on November 27. RCMP Investigation & Oversight Review The investigation included interviews with the complainant and several officers involved. The Independent Investigation Unit of Manitoba confirmed it monitored and later reviewed the RCMP’s findings to ensure the process met oversight standards. Charges & Court Process Harder resigned from the RCMP in January 2025 while the investigation was still underway. Ontario Provincial Police in Norfolk County served him with a summons on October 2, 2025. He is scheduled to appear in Portage la Prairie Provincial Court on October 21. The RCMP said Harder remains presumed innocent while the matter is before the court. Oversight and Public Trust The case has drawn attention because it involves an officer accused of theft during a routine stop, an encounter most drivers expect to be straightforward. The Independent Investigation Unit said its monitoring role helps ensure transparency when police are accused of criminal misconduct. The outcome of the case may shape how future complaints against law enforcement are reviewed in Manitoba and other jurisdictions.

A convicted killer who vanished from a Coquitlam jail in 2022 has been caught in Qatar. Rabih “Robby” Alkhalil, convicted of first-degree murder in a 2012 Vancouver shooting, was living under an alias when Interpol tracked him down overseas. His capture ends one of Canada’s longest manhunts and exposes how a dangerous inmate walked out of a high-security jail without being stopped. The case has reignited questions about how secure B.C.’s correctional facilities really are. Who Is Rabih Alkhalil & How Did He Escape? Alkhalil was on trial for murder when he escaped North Fraser Pretrial Centre on July 21, 2022. He had been accused of organizing the 2012 killing of Sandip Duhre, a prominent figure in Vancouver’s gang world. Even after his disappearance, the court continued the trial and convicted him in absentia in 2023. At the time, he was already serving a life sentence for a separate 2017 gang murder in Ontario. How Two Contractors Walked a Killer Out the Front Door Investigators say two men arrived at the jail dressed as construction workers with fake papers and reflective vests. Guards believed they were legitimate contractors and let them in without verifying their credentials. Within minutes, the men led Alkhalil through secure corridors and out a main exit to a white van disguised as a service vehicle. By the time staff realized what had happened, the trio had disappeared. Who Helped Him and What Went Wrong? The RCMP’s organized crime unit and B.C. Corrections launched a joint investigation within hours. By 2025, three men were charged with conspiracy and aiding the escape, including one later arrested in Spain. Investigators say falsified work orders and insider deception made the plan possible. Since then, B.C. Corrections has introduced stricter ID checks and new escort policies for all contractors. Canadian Killer Caught in Qatar: Will He Return to Canada? In 2025, Interpol confirmed the Canadian killer caught in Qatar after a three-year international search. He had been living under a false name and was detained by local authorities working with international partners. Bringing him home is now a diplomatic challenge. Canada and Qatar have no extradition treaty, meaning officials must negotiate directly for his return. Why Did a Secure Jail Miss the Warning Signs? North Fraser Pretrial Centre holds some of B.C.’s highest-risk offenders, yet two impostors gained access without detection. Investigators later confirmed that basic contractor screening was not followed that day. The Ministry of Public Safety admitted to serious procedural gaps but has not released its full internal report. Officials say new security protocols are now in place at every provincial facility. How Often Do Prison Escapes Really Happen? Federal data shows roughly two dozen escapes between 2021 and 2024, most from low-security institutions. The Alkhalil case stood out because it exposed how easily human error can defeat advanced security. Experts say this incident forced a national rethink of staffing, verification, and communication between correctional agencies. They warn that coordinated escapes like this are rare but always possible when oversight breaks down. Could It Happen Again and Should You Worry? When Alkhalil escaped, police described him as dangerous and urged the public not to approach him. For several days, Metro Vancouver residents were unsure whether he remained in the region. Officials now insist that new protocols and communication systems are designed to prevent another breach. Still, advocates argue the public should be notified faster if high-risk inmates ever escape again. What Happens Next Canadian officials are negotiating with Qatar to return Alkhalil to Canada. Without a formal treaty, the process could take months or stall entirely if Qatar refuses. Meanwhile, court cases continue against the men accused of helping him flee. B.C. Corrections faces growing pressure to release its internal review and show what has changed since the 2022 escape.

Young people across Vancouver have given up on the idea of buying a home in the city where they grew up. Even stable jobs and dual incomes cannot compete with prices that keep rising faster than wages. For many, the dream of home ownership has quietly disappeared, and Vancouver housing affordability has become one of the most talked-about crises in Canada. Few know that the forces behind it were not accidental. New research from Chapman University has confirmed that Vancouver’s housing crisis stems from decades of policy choices that limited where and how homes could be built. The report calls it one of the clearest examples of “artificial scarcity” in the world. How did these policies take hold, and why are they still in place today? How Policy Decisions Drove the Collapse of Vancouver Housing Affordability The 2025 Demographia International Housing Affordability Report explains that Vancouver’s unaffordability is not caused by population growth or geography, but by rules that restrict land use and drive up prices. These planning choices, known as urban containment, were designed to stop sprawl and protect green space. Instead, they created one of the world’s most distorted housing markets. As demand rose inside the city’s growth boundary, land values surged, making each new home dramatically more expensive than the last. Canada Has the Land, So Why the Shortage? Vancouver is surrounded by space, yet young people are being squeezed into smaller and smaller areas. Local governments have drawn strict boundaries around where development can happen, blocking expansion into nearby land that could ease pressure on prices. In cities like Calgary or Edmonton, where land use is more flexible, homes cost half as much relative to income. The contrast shows that Canada’s housing shortage is not about land running out. It is about decisions that keep most of it off limits, making it harder each year for ordinary residents to stay in the city they love. How Vancouver Compares to the Rest of the World The same report ranks Vancouver just behind Hong Kong, Sydney, and San Jose, placing it among the most unaffordable cities ever recorded. In each case, the study found that strict growth limits and planning restrictions made land prices soar. Cities without those limits tell a different story. In the United States, places like Houston and Dallas allow development to expand with demand and remain among the most affordable major urban markets in the world. If other cities could change course, could Vancouver do the same? What These Policies Are Doing to Vancouver’s Future High prices are reshaping who can live in Vancouver. The city that once felt young and creative now feels reserved for those who bought early or inherited wealth. This shift is slowly hollowing out the middle class that once defined the city. Each policy meant to manage growth is now pushing it away, leaving many to wonder whether the next generation will have a place here at all. What Needs to Change & Why Prices Will Not Drop Without It The researchers behind the Demographia report say affordability will not return unless governments release more land for housing. Densification alone cannot offset the price pressure created by fixed boundaries and limited supply. Interest rates may rise and fall, but scarcity keeps values high. Until the rules that restrict development change, owning a home in Vancouver will remain a privilege few can reach. The question is whether any government will be willing to take that risk. What Vancouver Can Learn from Other Cities Some cities that once faced similar affordability crises have started to reverse course. In Auckland and Houston, reforms that opened more land for development helped stabilize prices and gave younger residents a path back into the market. Vancouver could take the same path if it chooses to. For now, the research offers a reminder that this crisis was made by policy, and that means it can be unmade too.

It is the holidays and you are shopping for something fun but meaningful. Maybe a fidget toy to help a neurodiverse child focus or a gel blaster that looks like a harmless gadget. But many Canadians are now asking are toy guns allowed in Canada, as the 2023 replica firearm laws have changed what counts as a toy and what could be seized as a prohibited weapon. Since the new laws took effect, the RCMP and Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) have stepped up enforcement. Many online sellers still advertise products that no longer meet the definition of a toy under Canadian law. That means a well-intentioned gift could be seized, delayed, or destroyed at the border. Are Toy Guns Allowed in Canada Under the New Law So, are toy guns allowed in Canada? The answer depends on how realistic they appear. Under Criminal Code Section 84, a replica firearm is any object that looks like a real gun capable of firing a projectile faster than 152.4 metres per second (500 ft/s) and over 5.7 joules of energy. Even if a toy cannot fire, if it mimics a real firearm in size, weight, or color, it may still be treated as a replica. The CBSA Memorandum D19-13-2 guides officers to assess realism rather than function. Since the 2023 updates, even toys once considered harmless can now be refused entry. Why So Many Canadians Are Getting Caught Off Guard Online marketplaces often list gel blasters and fidget blasters as toys, even though most no longer meet Canadian import standards. Buyers order them thinking they are safe, only to find out later that the shipment was stopped or confiscated. Here is how CBSA now classifies popular products: Product Shoots Projectiles? Looks Realistic? Legal Risk Fidget blaster No Sometimes Low unless shaped like a real gun Gel blaster Yes Often High, most are treated as replicas Airsoft gun Yes Usually Moderate to high depending on appearance A product that is legal overseas can become illegal the moment it enters Canada. With the 2023 replica firearm law changes, the number of seizures has increased, especially during holiday shopping seasons. The Myths About Orange Tips and “Safe” Toy Guns Many Canadians believe that toy guns are allowed in Canada if they have orange tips, similar to the rule in the United States. This is false. Canada has no orange-tip requirement. The RCMP decides legality based on realism, not color. A toy with an orange muzzle can still be seized if it looks like an authentic firearm. Bright coloring helps, but the law focuses on overall appearance, not paint details. What Happens When Customs Flags Your Order When the CBSA identifies a shipment as a potential replica firearm, the package is detained immediately. Buyers receive a seizure notice explaining why the item violates Canadian import regulations. Refunds from international sellers are uncommon, and appeals are limited to licensed firearm businesses. Police can also respond if someone displays a realistic toy gun in public. Officers must treat every firearm report as genuine until proven otherwise. Even if it turns out to be a toy, charges such as causing a disturbance or mischief can still apply. What to Buy Instead: Safer Toys and Sensory Alternatives If you are buying for anxiety or focus support, you do not need gun-shaped fidget toys. Research shows that sensory tools like fidget cubes, stress balls, or textured rings are just as effective without creating confusion or risk. Experts recommend choosing neutral designs that can be used safely at school or in public. These products offer the same calming benefit without breaking replica firearm laws. For official guidance, see the RCMP Canadian Firearms Program. How to Shop Safely Under the New Rules Buy only from Canadian retailers that comply with RCMP and CBSA regulations. These sellers must follow the updated 2023 replica firearm definitions and cannot sell items that resemble real guns. Avoid listings with words like gel blaster, airsoft, or replica gun. Look for bright colors, clear labeling, and family-friendly packaging. Always keep receipts or screenshots to show the product was sold as a toy in case authorities request proof. The Hidden Mistake That Could Get Your Toy Seized at the Border Canada’s 2023 replica firearm law has quietly changed what counts as a toy. A fidget gun or gel blaster that looks harmless online can now be seized or destroyed without refund if it resembles a real weapon. Before you buy, check where the toy is made, how it looks, and whether the seller follows Canadian import standards. Choosing colorful, clearly toy-like products from domestic retailers can prevent your thoughtful holiday gift from ending up in a CBSA holding facility or classified as a prohibited firearm. Disclaimer This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Canadian firearm and replica laws may change, and rules can vary by product. For current information, contact the RCMP Canadian Firearms Program or the Canada Border Services Agency before purchasing any toy gun or imitation firearm. StaySafeVancouver and the author assume no responsibility for actions taken based on this article.

A TikTok video scrolls by. A group of friends laugh as they step out of a car, aiming colorful toy guns and firing tiny beads at each other. It looks harmless, even fun, until a police cruiser appears in the background of another clip. What started as an online “Orbeez challenge” has evolved into a safety concern in Canada. Across the country, police are responding to calls about what appear to be real firearms. The toys in question are gel blasters, devices that shoot small water-filled beads. They are sold online as fidget gadgets or backyard toys, but their realistic design has drawn the attention of law enforcement and border officials. For Vancouver residents, the issue raises real questions. Are these toys legal? Can they be carried in public? And how did a TikTok trend become a police problem? What Exactly Are Gel Blasters & The Orbeez Challenge? Gel blasters are toy guns that shoot soft polymer beads known as gel balls or Orbeez. The beads are soaked in water before use, causing them to swell into small, squishy projectiles that burst on impact. Many models resemble handguns or rifles, often down to color, size, and design. The “Orbeez challenge” took off on TikTok when creators began filming themselves shooting unsuspecting people or vehicles as a prank. Some used bright, toy-like versions, while others used realistic replicas. In the United States, several incidents resulted in injuries and arrests. By 2024, similar videos began surfacing in Canadian cities, prompting warnings from police across multiple provinces. Are Gel Blasters Legal in Canada? The legality of gel blasters in Canada is complex. Under the Criminal Code, a “replica firearm” is any device that looks with near precision like a real firearm but is not capable of causing serious injury or death. Replica firearms are classified as prohibited devices, meaning they cannot be imported, sold, transferred, or exported. Bill C-21, which received Royal Assent in December 2023, reaffirmed this rule. It clarified that devices closely resembling regulated firearms are prohibited, even if they shoot harmless projectiles. While owning one privately is not automatically a crime, anyone caught importing or displaying one in public may face seizure and potential charges. How CBSA Treats Gel Blasters at the Border The Canada Border Services Agency regularly seizes shipments of gel blasters. Packages ordered from online retailers often arrive labeled as “toys” but are detained because they are considered prohibited replicas. Buyers frequently report on Reddit and hobby forums that their orders are confiscated and never returned. The reasoning is straightforward. If a gel blaster looks too much like a real firearm, it meets the legal definition of a replica. In Canada, bright colors or orange tips do not make the item exempt, unlike in the United States. The visual resemblance to a real gun is what determines legality. Police Warnings and Real Incidents in Canada Across Canada, police departments have issued repeated warnings about the dangers of gel blasters. In 2024, York Regional Police charged several teens in Vaughan after drive-by assaults involving gel-bead projectiles. Winnipeg schools have banned the toys following safety incidents, and RCMP detachments in British Columbia have cautioned residents about public use. Vancouver police have also responded to reports of people carrying what appeared to be guns that turned out to be toys or lighters. Officers note that they must treat every firearm call as real until confirmed otherwise. Even an innocent prank can quickly escalate into a serious encounter. What Happens When Someone Calls 911 About a “Gun” When a firearm is reported, officers respond immediately and with caution. They cannot distinguish a toy from a real weapon until they are on scene. Brandishing or displaying a gel blaster in public can lead to an armed response, detention, or criminal charges such as causing a disturbance or possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose. For young people filming social media content, the consequences can be severe. What seems like a joke online can create panic, trigger a large police response, and lead to long-term legal problems. Safety Risks Beyond the Law Gel blasters pose additional safety and health risks. Health Canada warns that Orbeez and similar water beads can expand inside the body if swallowed or inserted into the ear or nose. This can cause life-threatening blockages, particularly in children. Several hospitals have reported emergency cases linked to these beads. Environmental concerns have also been raised. The beads do not fully biodegrade and can enter waterways through drains or outdoor play. Combined with the potential for public misidentification, these issues make gel blasters a growing focus for regulators and safety advocates. Why the “It’s Just a Toy” Mindset Is Dangerous From a distance or in low light, a gel blaster can look identical to a real handgun. Police officers and bystanders cannot tell the difference until it is too late. Even if the device fires soft beads, its appearance alone is enough to cause panic. In cities like Vancouver, public awareness is critical. Carrying or displaying one of these toys can lead to police intervention or seizure. Understanding how Canadian law views gel blasters is essential to avoiding unnecessary danger. What You Can Do If you already own a gel blaster, keep it at home and never display it in public. Do not attempt to import one from overseas, even if marketed as a fidget toy or replica. Many are intercepted by CBSA and will not be returned. Parents should monitor whether children are playing with gel blasters or water bead products. Health Canada’s safety pages include guidance on safe toy use and product recalls. For social media creators, promoting the “Orbeez challenge” may violate platform guidelines and could draw legal attention if it involves public spaces or nonconsenting participants. In Vancouver, anyone who sees a person with a gun-shaped object should contact the police. For situations that do not appear immediately dangerous, use the non-emergency line rather than 911. What This Trend Really Means for Canadians The rise of gel blasters in Canada shows how quickly online trends can blur the line between harmless fun and real risk. What begins as a social challenge can escalate into a police call, a border seizure, or a medical emergency. The safest approach is to stay informed, avoid carrying realistic-looking toys in public, and think twice before joining viral challenges that can have serious consequences. Questions Canadians Are Asking About Gel Blasters Are gel blasters legal to own in Canada? Private ownership is not a crime, but importing, selling, or displaying one in public can be illegal if the device meets the definition of a replica firearm. Can I import a gel blaster from the U.S. or Asia? No. The Canada Border Services Agency classifies most as prohibited replicas and routinely seizes them at the border. What happens if police see me with a gel blaster? Police respond as if it were a real firearm until proven otherwise. You could face detention or criminal charges depending on the situation. Are Orbeez beads dangerous for children? Yes. Health Canada warns that water beads can expand inside the body if swallowed, leading to serious injury or death.

A small metal gadget is trending on TikTok for its crisp clicks and pocket size. It looks a bit like a sci-fi sidearm, which is why many viewers are asking if the fidget gun toy is legal to own in Canada. What the Fidget Gun Toy Actually Is This device is a mechanical fidget made from metal, usually aluminum or titanium. It does not fire a projectile and relies on springs or magnets to create a satisfying press and release. Designs vary from abstract to vaguely gun-shaped. The appeal is tactile relief and engineering novelty, not shooting. Check Price on Amazon What Canadian Law Says Under the Criminal Code, a replica firearm must look with near precision like a specific real make and model. Most fidget blasters are stylized, smaller and incapable of firing, so they generally do not meet that definition. Police still treat all gun reports as real until proven otherwise. Using any imitation to threaten or commit a crime is an offense. How CBSA Looks at Imports CBSA applies a three-part test that includes whether the item closely resembles an identifiable firearm model. These gadgets usually fail that resemblance step, which means they are typically admissible, case by case. Packaging and product pages that market the item as a realistic gun can invite extra scrutiny. Describing it accurately as a mechanical fidget toy reduces confusion. When a Legal Toy Can Still Cause Problems Public display can trigger 911 calls, especially on transit or near schools. Officers respond as if a weapon is real, which creates risk for everyone. Keep play private and low-profile. Context and perception matter more than intent. How to Avoid Issues in Canada Buy models with abstract or sci-fi styling rather than realistic proportions. Do not carry or use it in public spaces where it could be mistaken for a weapon. If importing, ensure invoices and listings call it a mechanical fidget toy. Keep magnet pieces away from children due to Health Canada safety rules. Bottom Line For Canadians For most designs, ownership and import are generally lawful because the devices are not replica firearms. The risk comes from public perception, so treat the gadget like something that could be misread and use it privately. If you choose to buy one, understand the difference between legal status and practical safety. A home desk toy can look very different in public. Legal compliance review This article avoids legal advice and reflects general federal rules in effect at the time of writing. CBSA and police make case-specific decisions, and laws can change, so readers should check official guidance before buying or importing.

When the Freedom Convoy rolled into Ottawa in early 2022, it started as a protest against vaccine mandates. Within days, it became a blockade that gridlocked parts of downtown Ottawa and disrupted daily life. Now, three years later, convoy organizers Tamara Lich and Chris Barber have been sentenced to 18-month conditional sentences for mischief and related offenses. Their punishment raises a new question — how does Canada balance protest rights with public safety when both matter to everyday people? Why Did Two Protest Leaders Avoid Jail Time in the Lich and Barber Sentencing? After a long and public trial, many Canadians expected a harsher outcome. The Crown sought multi-year prison terms, arguing the disruption caused significant harm and costs to residents and businesses. Instead, the judge handed down house arrest, curfews, and community service. The decision has left observers divided — some see restraint, others see leniency — and both sides are asking what justice looks like in a protest that changed the country’s capital. What Is a Conditional Sentence — and Why Does It Matter? House arrest may sound lenient, but under Canadian law, it counts as jail. Offenders serve their sentence at home under strict conditions that can send them to custody if breached. This approach applies to non-violent offenders who pose little risk to public safety. The Lich and Barber sentencing has brought new attention to this part of the justice system and how it balances accountability with rehabilitation. How Did the Convoy Impact Ordinary Canadians? For residents of downtown Ottawa, the protest meant sleepless nights, continuous horn noise, and blocked emergency routes. Businesses lost income, and many residents reported feeling unsafe walking home. City estimates later showed millions in municipal and policing costs. Those disruptions became central to how the court defined mischief — not as protest itself, but as harm caused by refusing to leave once the city’s order and injunctions were in place. When Does Protest Become a Threat to Safety? Freedom of expression is protected under Canada’s Charter of Rights and Freedoms, but it’s not absolute. When demonstrations prevent others from working, accessing healthcare, or moving freely, they can cross into criminal territory. That balance remains fragile in every city. From environmental blockades to housing protests, Canadians continue to debate where protest ends and obstruction begins — a question the Lich and Barber case has forced courts to clarify. Why the Judge Drew the Line Where She Did Justice Heather Perkins-McVey rejected both the Crown’s call for years in prison and the defense’s request for full discharge. She concluded that jail wasn’t necessary but accountability was. Her reasoning relied on proportionality — the legal requirement that punishment must reflect both harm and intent. By imposing a conditional sentence, the court recognized the disruption’s seriousness without extending incarceration to first-time, non-violent offenders. What Each Side Says About the Lich Barber Sentencing Conservative-leaning commentators argue the Crown’s sentencing requests were excessive and say the court’s restraint confirms incarceration was unwarranted. Some frame the case as a test of political neutrality in the justice system. Liberal-leaning analysts highlight the convoy’s impact on Ottawa residents and emphasize that a conditional sentence is still a custodial term under Canadian law. Both sides agree the ruling will shape how courts treat disruptive but non-violent protests in the future — a question with growing relevance for cities like Vancouver. Could This Change How Future Protests Are Handled? The Lich and Barber sentencing sets a new benchmark for large-scale protests that disrupt daily life. It confirms that mischief convictions carry real consequences, even without jail time. For Vancouver and other Canadian cities, the case offers a framework. It reinforces that protest remains protected, but not at the expense of public safety or essential access for others. All Your Questions Answered Did Tamara Lich and Chris Barber go to jail? No. Both are serving conditional sentences at home with curfew and community service requirements. What does a conditional sentence mean in Canada? It is a custodial sentence served in the community under court supervision. Breaching conditions can lead to jail. Why did the judge choose house arrest instead of prison? Because neither organizer committed violence and both were found suitable for community-based sentencing. Can they appeal the decision? Yes. Both legal teams have stated they are reviewing the decision and may appeal. Will this affect future protests in Canada? It could. The case defines how far protests can go before being considered criminal mischief and may influence future court responses to public blockades. The Freedom Convoy case closed one chapter in a national debate over rights and responsibility. Its outcome won’t satisfy everyone, but it reminds Canadians what’s at stake when freedom and safety meet in the same street.

Interest rates in Canada are finally easing, but not fast enough to protect homeowners in Vancouver facing renewals in 2025. The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), the federal agency that monitors housing trends, says more Canadians are missing mortgage payments. It is a small change, but it could reshape Vancouver’s housing market as higher renewals lead to more payment stress, forced sales, and price corrections. Most Vancouver homeowners bought or refinanced when interest rates were near historic lows between 2020 and 2022. Now those mortgages are renewing at rates more than double what they were, even after this year’s small cuts. The average five-year fixed mortgage sits around 5 percent compared to 2 percent just a few years ago. That difference adds up fast, and CMHC warns the effects are only beginning to show. This is why experts say mortgage delinquency in Vancouver 2025 could become one of the most important economic stories to watch. Could This Push House Prices Down? Maybe — but not in the way buyers hope. When mortgage payments jump, some owners list early to stay ahead of renewal pressure, briefly increasing supply. Others hold off, hoping for deeper rate cuts before selling. This push-and-pull slows the market and creates pockets of opportunity rather than a city-wide price drop. CMHC data shows BC’s delinquency rate rising faster than before, though still below the national average. If more households struggle through 2025, forced sales could increase — particularly among condo and investment properties where profit margins are thin. It’s not a crash scenario, but it might finally give first-time buyers some leverage after years of record prices. Could Rising Mortgage Delinquency Push Vancouver House Prices Down in 2025? Maybe, but not dramatically. When payments rise, some homeowners list early to avoid financial strain, adding short bursts of new supply. Others wait, hoping for lower rates before selling. This back-and-forth can slow sales and flatten prices, but it rarely sparks a collapse. CMHC’s latest delinquency data shows British Columbia still below the national average, but the rate is climbing faster than before. If financial pressure spreads in 2025, more forced sales could appear, especially among condo investors or owners with smaller equity buffers. That could bring small price dips or temporary buyer leverage, not a full crash. Will Mortgage Renewals Force Vancouver Homeowners to Downsize in 2025? Many will adapt, but some are already running out of room. Those on variable or short fixed terms face what CMHC calls "payment shock" when their renewals jump to higher rates. The Bank of Canada lists this as one of the biggest financial risks for 2025. In high-cost areas like Metro Vancouver, even a slight increase can tip budgets over. Refinancing into longer terms or selling smaller homes is becoming more common. For growing families and first-time buyers who stretched to get in, downsizing may become a financial necessity rather than a choice. What Happens to Vancouver Mortgages if Rates Go Up or Down in 2025? If rates go down, monthly payments ease slightly, but not enough to erase the jump from pandemic lows. A homeowner renewing a 2 percent mortgage at 4.5 percent still faces a major increase. If rates stay flat, the squeeze spreads slowly. Renewals in 2025 and 2026 will continue pushing delinquencies higher as each household resets to higher payments. If rates rise again, mortgage stress could grow sharply. That might push more listings onto the market, softening prices but also leaving some households unable to refinance at all. How Rising Mortgage Delinquency Could Affect Renters in Vancouver Renters are not immune. When landlords renew their own mortgages at higher rates, they often raise rents where they can. In BC, annual increases are capped at 3.5 percent for 2025, but the rule does not apply when tenants move out, meaning new leases can be set at full market value. That means renters who stay put will see moderate increases, while anyone moving faces a jump. CMHC’s 2025 report shows the average purpose-built rental in Metro Vancouver costs about $2,400 a month. If mortgage stress causes more investors to sell or repurpose rental units, the city’s already tight supply could shrink even further. Why Vancouver Still Has One of Canada’s Lowest Mortgage Delinquency Rates Despite warning signs, Vancouver remains one of the most stable housing markets in Canada. Mortgage delinquency sits around 0.15 percent, below the national average of 0.21 percent. Strong job growth and steady immigration have helped households stay current. But this stability can be misleading. Many families rely on dual incomes or support from relatives to make ends meet. Regulators like CMHC and OSFI warn that BC’s high household debt leaves little buffer if the economy weakens or rates climb again. What Vancouver Buyers Should Watch in 2025’s Mortgage Renewal Cycle If you are waiting to buy, 2025 may offer selective openings rather than a full correction. Watch listings in Burnaby, Coquitlam, and Surrey, where condo investors are renewing early and some may sell under pressure. If rates keep falling, competition will return quickly as buyers re-enter the market. If they hold steady, prices could level off but remain high. And if rates rise again, more motivated sellers might appear, but with tighter lending rules, getting approved could still be difficult. The Bottom Line: What Vancouver’s 2025 Mortgage Renewal Storm Means for You Mortgage delinquency rates rarely make headlines, but they reveal how stable or fragile a housing market really is. For now, Vancouver looks steady, yet the coming renewal wave will be its toughest test since before the pandemic. Whether you are renting, buying, or holding on to your current home, keep an eye on what happens when those low-rate loans reset. That is where the next shift in Vancouver’s housing market will begin.

When Vancouver’s newest homeless count was released in September 2025, one number stood out. The total number of women and gender-diverse people experiencing homelessness had jumped 34 percent in just two years. Behind that rise are situations that are less visible in public space. Many of the women counted were not living in encampments or shelters. They were sleeping in cars, on friends’ couches, or in temporary spaces that felt safe for a night but not much longer. The 2025 Point-in-Time Homeless Count in Greater Vancouver, led by the Homelessness Services Association of BC and Lu’ma Native Housing Society, captured a regional total of 5,232 people without stable housing. The report highlights a safety and visibility gap that is difficult to measure within a 24-hour snapshot. A Sharp Increase in Women Experiencing Homelessness The 2025 count found that women and gender-diverse people made up a growing share of Metro Vancouver’s homeless population. While men still represent most of those surveyed, the rate of increase among women is higher than any other group. Vancouver saw the sharpest overall jump, with 2,715 people identified as homeless compared to 2,420 in 2023. Across the region, unsheltered homelessness rose 22 percent, meaning more people are sleeping outdoors or in unsafe temporary situations instead of in shelters. Safety Risks and Barriers for Women on the Street Women and gender-diverse people experience homelessness in ways that are less visible. The 2025 count records unsheltered stays that include sleeping outdoors, in vehicles, and temporarily with others, which can reduce contact with services. The report notes the Point-in-Time method undercounts hidden homelessness. It also shows that 17 percent of unsheltered respondents were staying with others on the count night, a pattern that can mask risk and limit access to support. Evictions and Income: How Women Fall Into Homelessness Economic pressures remain the largest driver of housing loss. In the 2025 count, 42 percent of respondents said their most recent experience of homelessness began with an eviction. The leading reasons were not enough income, conflict with landlords, or substance use. For women earning low wages or relying on income assistance, even a modest rent increase can trigger displacement. The 2023 provincial data showed a similar pattern across B.C., confirming that homelessness is most often a result of financial strain rather than sudden life events. Indigenous Women Disproportionately Affected Indigenous people continue to face a disproportionate burden. They represent 34 percent of those counted in the 2025 Metro Vancouver report, despite making up only about 2 percent of the regional population. Among women, the overrepresentation is even greater. Indigenous women often face intersecting barriers such as intergenerational trauma, discrimination, and limited access to culturally safe housing. Indigenous-led organizations like Lu’ma Native Housing Society are leading new initiatives, but demand still far outpaces available resources. Mental Health, Substance Use, and Support Gaps Mental health and substance-use challenges remain closely linked to homelessness. In 2025, 81 percent of respondents reported experiencing one or both issues, with over half reporting both. Women and gender-diverse people with trauma histories often struggle to find support that feels safe or tailored to their needs. The report notes that limited access to women-only or trauma-informed shelters continues to keep many at risk and off the radar of service networks. Where Do We Go From Here? The 2025 count offers a clearer picture but not a solution. Governments and service providers are expanding supportive housing programs and crisis-response systems through the federal Reaching Home initiative, but shelter capacity remains limited. The data points to an ongoing need for safer spaces, stable income supports, and affordable housing options that reflect the realities women face. As the city heads into another winter, Vancouver’s homelessness crisis is no longer just about rising numbers—it is about who is being seen, and who still isn’t.

At Pacific Centre in downtown Vancouver, some retail staff say they’ve started locking their doors when a familiar man walks by. They describe seeing him frequently, often daily, taking merchandise and leaving before anyone can intervene. Workers told CityNews that they’ve begun warning each other through group chats when he enters the mall. Many say they no longer confront him out of fear that he might become violent. The Vancouver Police Department confirmed to CityNews that the same man has been charged with theft under $5,000 on multiple occasions. Pacific Centre’s owner, Cadillac Fairview, said it is working with the VPD’s Retail Crime Task Force to address safety concerns but did not confirm whether a formal trespass ban was issued. Why Are Workers Still Seeing the Same Suspect? Under Canada’s Criminal Code, theft under $5,000 is a hybrid offense that often results in probation or community release. Police can arrest someone, but prosecutors must prove intent and value, and sentences for minor theft are typically short. Even when a ban is in place, enforcement depends on timing. Security guards cannot detain someone unless a crime is in progress, leaving staff waiting for police to arrive. That gap is what many employees say puts them at risk. What the City’s Retail Crime Task Force Is Doing The City of Vancouver created its Retail Security Task Force in April 2025 to address rising theft and repeat offenders. The task force brings together police, business groups, and social services to track cases and improve coordination. As of October 2025, no public performance data has been released. Police say investigations are ongoing and that the program is part of a longer effort to reduce repeat offenses. Why Retail Theft Keeps Rising in Vancouver Statistics Canada reported that shoplifting increased 14 percent nationwide in 2024 and more than 60 percent over the past decade. In Vancouver, shoplifting rose 11.7 percent last year to nearly 7,700 reported incidents. Police say the rise reflects a mix of chronic offenders and underreporting in previous years. For retail staff, it means seeing the same people come through again and again — a pattern they say feels more personal than ever. How Workers Can Protect Themselves Police advise employees not to intervene during a theft. If someone refuses to leave or becomes aggressive, call 911. For delayed incidents, use the VPD’s non-emergency line or online reporting form. Employers can help by ensuring no one works alone during closing hours, improving camera coverage, and keeping detailed incident logs. Reporting every theft helps identify repeat offenders and supports faster police response. What Comes Next Retail workers say they want to feel safe again. Some hope that stronger enforcement of trespass orders and quicker follow-ups from the Retail Crime Task Force will make a difference. Until then, many stores in downtown Vancouver will keep doing what they’ve learned to do — lock the doors when the familiar man walks by.

A Saturday drive in North Vancouver turned into a violent collision that left one person fighting for their life. Around 3 p.m. on October 4, 2025, police were called to Boulevard Crescent and East 21st Street after what RCMP described as a road rage incident between two drivers. According to investigators, a grey Subaru and a white Jeep were involved. Police said a confrontation occurred when one person exited their vehicle and was struck. The victim was taken to hospital in critical condition, and a driver was arrested at the scene. RCMP confirmed the investigation is ongoing and no charges have been proven in court. What Happened in the North Vancouver Road Rage Incident RCMP say the crash unfolded in a quiet residential area that connects to several busy routes. Witnesses reported seeing emergency crews block off the intersection as paramedics treated the injured person on the road. Police are now reviewing dashcam footage and appealing for witnesses who were in the area at the time. Anyone with video or information is asked to contact North Vancouver RCMP at 604-985-1311, referencing file number 2025-21042. The Rise of Road Rage Across BC Aggressive driving reports have climbed steadily across British Columbia in the past five years, according to ICBC and RoadSafetyBC data. Experts point to a mix of stress, traffic congestion, and post-pandemic frustration as key triggers. In Metro Vancouver, road rage incidents have become more visible, with drivers using social media to post near-misses and confrontations. Police say these conflicts often start with something small — a lane change, a horn, or a perceived slight — and can quickly turn violent. Why North Vancouver Drivers Are Especially Frustrated The North Shore’s geography makes driving uniquely stressful. Narrow residential streets, steep hills, and long bridge delays often leave drivers boxed in with few alternate routes. Add ongoing construction and heavy commuter traffic, and tempers flare fast. Local residents say the daily crawl over the Ironworkers and Lions Gate bridges has become a test of patience. For some, that frustration follows them onto side streets where collisions like this one happen. Police Warnings After the North Vancouver Road Rage Incident Following the North Vancouver road rage incident, RCMP reminded the public to disengage if confronted by an aggressive driver. Officers said pulling over safely, avoiding eye contact, and reporting the incident later are the best options. Police stressed that leaving the scene and calling 911 immediately is critical when there’s danger. Confrontation, even when provoked, can turn a minor dispute into a criminal investigation. The Legal Fallout of Road Rage in Canada Under Canada’s Criminal Code, drivers who endanger others can face charges such as dangerous operation or criminal negligence causing bodily harm. If intent or violence is proven, charges can escalate to aggravated assault or attempted murder. Convictions can carry prison time and long-term driving bans. Police emphasize that even momentary anger behind the wheel can destroy lives — both for victims and for drivers who lose control. The Bigger Picture: A City on Edge The North Vancouver road rage incident is part of a growing trend that mirrors the province’s broader frustration with gridlock, housing costs, and social tension. In a city already strained by rising stress and shrinking patience, the road has become a place where that anger spills out. For many residents, the incident is another reminder that public safety now extends to everyday situations once taken for granted — like driving home on a Saturday afternoon. The Bottom Line One person remains in critical condition following the North Vancouver road rage incident, and RCMP continue to investigate. Police have not released names or further updates. As Metro Vancouver traffic worsens and emotions rise, authorities say the best defense is awareness — not confrontation. What began as a simple merge ended with flashing lights and a community asking how something so ordinary could turn so violent.

Most people in Vancouver use Uber or Lyft without thinking twice. It’s the go-to ride home after a night downtown, a fallback when buses stop running, or the fastest way to get across the city. But in the past few years, several rides around Metro Vancouver have ended in police investigations, criminal complaints, and even tragedy. Each case revealed a different weakness in B.C.’s rideshare system. From a fatal highway crash to an alleged assault, these stories show how quickly a routine trip can unravel—and why rideshare safety in Vancouver has become an issue worth talking about. 1. When an Uber Pulled Over and Someone Didn’t Make It Home In February 2024, an Uber carrying several passengers pulled onto the shoulder of Highway 1 near Sprott Street in Burnaby. Moments later, another car slammed into it. One young woman died at the scene and others were injured. Police said the shoulder stop was unsafe and should have been used only for emergencies. The crash became one of B.C.’s deadliest rideshare incidents. It raised questions about how well drivers understand highway safety and whether passengers feel comfortable challenging risky decisions. Riders can ask to exit at the next off-ramp or request a safer location through the app if a driver pulls over unexpectedly. 2. The Langley Ride That Turned Into a Police Investigation In October 2024, a 19-year-old woman reported that her Uber driver exposed himself and reached toward her during a short trip to an event. She was riding with her mother and a family friend when it allegedly happened. Langley RCMP confirmed an investigation, and Uber said it immediately removed the driver’s access. Her family told reporters it took nearly a day before the company followed up on their complaint. The case reignited debate about how quickly ride-hailing platforms act on serious safety reports and why more riders don’t use features like Verify-with-PIN, trip sharing, and audio recording. 3. The Secret Ride-Hail Market Police Keep Busting in Richmond In June 2025, Richmond RCMP ran a one-day sting targeting unlicensed ride-hail drivers. Six people were fined more than $12,000 for offering cash-based trips arranged through messaging apps or social media. Police said none of the vehicles had commercial insurance or verified background checks. Investigators warned that these off-app rides are still operating around Metro Vancouver. Because they happen outside official platforms, passengers lose access to GPS tracking, emergency tools, and insurance protection. For anyone focused on rideshare safety in Vancouver, this case shows why it’s important to confirm a booking through the app and match the plate before getting in. 4. The Repeat Offender Who Wouldn’t Stop Driving for Cash A month later, Richmond RCMP announced that a man convicted of running an illegal ride-hail service had been caught again. It was his fourth violation in under a year. He pleaded guilty and was fined, with probation conditions banning him from carrying passengers for hire. Police said the conviction shows courts are cracking down but also highlights how repeat offenders exploit gaps in enforcement. They urged riders to avoid cash-based trips and report suspected off-app drivers directly to police. What These Cases Reveal About Rideshare Safety in Vancouver Each of these stories shows a different kind of danger—risky stops, alleged misconduct, or illegal operations. Together, they reveal that rideshare safety in Vancouver depends as much on rider awareness as regulation. Simple steps can lower the risk: confirm the car’s plate and driver, enable Verify-with-PIN, share your trip, and speak up if anything feels wrong. Passengers can’t control every outcome, but they can take back some control of the ride. How to Stay Safe in a Rideshare Only book through official apps and confirm the vehicle matches before entering Use Verify-with-PIN on Uber to confirm your driver Share your trip with a friend or family member Keep your phone open to the live route Report anything that feels unsafe through the app or to police Never pay cash or accept rides arranged outside Uber or Lyft