Police throughout Metro Vancouver are on high alert after a man, described as armed and dangerous, pointed a gun at a New Westminster police officer Monday morning, then pulled the trigger.

New Westminster police said in a statement they received a report around 10 a.m. PT about two people sleeping in a white Buick LaCrosse in the 100 block of Royal Avenue.

"After approaching the vehicle and making verbal contact with the unknown male in the driver's seat, the male produced a firearm," police said in the statement.

The suspects were driving a white four-door Buick LaCrosse sedan, similar to the one in this stock image, displaying Alberta license plate J33225. (IFCAR/Wikipedia)

"The male pointed the firearm directly at the NWPD member and pulled the trigger, however the firearm failed to discharge."

As police officers ran for cover, the vehicle sped away, launching a pursuit through three municipalities that ended an hour later when police lost the car in Vancouver near Southeast Marine Drive and Inverness Street.

"As a result of fleeing from police, the vehicle has been involved in a number of hit-and-runs and will have some damage, although the extent of the damage is unknown at this time," said police.

Call 911, do not approach

New Westminster Police are asking for the public's help finding the vehicle and its occupants, but warn people not to approach them.

"It is very important that should anyone come upon this vehicle, call 911 immediately and do not approach the vehicle as its occupants are considered armed and dangerous," police said in the news release.

The vehicle is described as a white four-door Buick LaCrosse, with Alberta license plate J33225.

The driver is described as:

A white man with dark hair and a "soul patch" beard.

Wearing a hoop earring in his left ear.

Wearing a short sleeve shirt and black baseball hat.

Tattoos covering both arms.

A tattoo on the left side of his neck.

The female passenger is described as:

A white female with reddish-orange hair.

Acne or pock marks on her face.

Wearing a tank top and tights with a flower pattern.

There was also a small "pitbull breed" dog in the vehicle, according to police.