A Chilliwack bank manager who “exemplified outstanding courage and leadership” during an attempted armed robbery was among the heroes commended Wednesday night (March 13) by the RCMP.
Kathy Parker was one of several community members, RCMP officers, BC Corrections officers and first responders to be recognized for excellence at the 13th Annual Upper Fraser Valley Regional RCMP Detachment Awards Ceremony.
Inspector Darren Pankratz told a brief recap of that harrowing event of April 27, 2023 to the audience gathered at the Chilliwack Cultural Centre. A 64-year-old man walked into the downtown Chilliwack CIBC branch, and was brandishing a weapon believed at the time to be a firearm.
It was the middle of the day, in a busy plaza, and the police and emergency response outside the building was swift.
And inside the building, Parker showed “exceptional bravery,” Pankratz said.
“In the midst of chaos and uncertainty, Ms. Parker displayed remarkable composure and acted swiftly to safeguard the customers and the employees,” he explained. “Ms. Parker’s calm and empathetic approach proved instrumental in persuading the suspect to surrender what at the time was believed to be a firearm.”
She also helped facilitate the safe removal of the weapon outside the bank, ensuring the safety of everyone involved.
Parker “exemplified outstanding courage and leadership in the face of adversity,” he added. She was given the Recognizing Excellence for Valour Award on stage by Superintendent Davy Lee and Chief Superintendent Duncan Pound.
Eric William Hansen, 64, was charged with one count of robbery and one count of use imitation firearm committing indictable offence for the incident, and faces trial at the end of 2024, according to court documents.
The two-hour award ceremony recognized nearly 50 people for their work and actions in Agassiz, Harrison, Chilliwack and Hope, in addition to the presentation of the 30-Year Long Service Medal to Sgt. Ron Elliot.
Editor’s note: Photography is not allowed at the annual event, for privacy reasons. Watch here for more stories and images from this event.
READ MORE: Eric William Hansen charged after attempted bank robbery Thursday at Chilliwack CIBC