Vancouver — Vancouver Police are pleading for calm following an uptick in potentially harmful online rhetoric since the stabbing death of a teenaged boy on Saturday.

“We are alarmed by some of the social media chatter that has misidentified some teens as being involved in this incident, and inappropriately singled out others for retribution,” says Sergeant Steve Addison, VPD. “Today is the first school day following a district-wide professional development day, and we’re asking everyone to be respectful of each other and mindful about what they post online.”

VPD’s Major Crime Section is investigating the homicide, which occurred Saturday afternoon in Dunbar’s Almond Park following an altercation between two groups. A 15-year-old died from his injuries and a 14-year-old boy has been charged with possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose.

“Tensions and emotions are running high, and we’re very worried this could lead to more conflict amongst youth,” adds Sergeant Addison. “We’re pleading with teens to take a deep breath and to stay calm, and we ask parents to speak to their kids about what they’re posting on social media so we can avoid any other serious incidents.”

VPD is temporarily deploying additional officers to the area, and may reallocate others as required.