Update 5:36 p.m. Wednesday:

Officers from the RCMP Explosive Disposal Unit examined the suspicious item and determined it was not an explosive device, according to police. “Thank you everyone for your patience as we worked to ensure public safety. The area is now clear,” reads an update.

West Shore RCMP says the Explosives Device Unit has been deployed to the 300 block of Island Highway and drivers are still advised to find an alternate route.

Mounties say at 1:20 p.m. Wednesday, West Shore RCMP were called to a report of a “suspicious item” in the 300 block of Island Highway in View Royal.

Around 3:37 p.m., Cpl. Nancy Saggar, West Shore RCMP spokesperson issued a statement that “Officers are currently on scene and have contained the area creating a safety perimeter. Surrounding residences and businesses are being notified.”

The RCMP EDU has attending the scene and traffic is being diverted until further notice.

“Island Hwy is closed in both directions between Helmcken Road and Jedburgh Road. We ask the public to refrain from attending the area as police continue to work,” stated Saggar.

An update will be provided when the area is clear. Until then, drivers are advised to find an alternate route.

Earlier on Wednesday afternoon, West Shore RCMP posted online “Police are responding to an incident near the 300 block of Island Hwy, expect a heavy police presence and potential road closures in the area.”

Drivers and pedestrians were asked to avoid the area and to expect traffic delays for an unknown amount of time while they investigated.

Police are responding to an incident near the 300 block of Island Hwy, expect a heavy police presence and potential road closures in the area. We advise all motorist and pedestrians to please avoid that area. Find an alternate route as traffic delays are expected.

We will…

— West Shore RCMP (@WestshoreRCMP) August 6, 2025

RCMP taped off a section of the Island Highway near the View Royal Salvation Army thrift store.

Around 2:30 p.m., a live view on Google Maps showed slowed traffic in the 300 block area, where Helmcken Road and Island Highway meet.

Google Maps live view on Aug. 6 at 2:30 p.m.