LAC LA BICHE, Alta – A Lac La Biche man was arrested in a joint operation by Boyle and Redwater RCMP after receiving a complaint on June 7, that a man had been carrying a firearm in Boyle. Another report also claimed a building had been allegedly shot at.
A subsequent investigation by RCMP members revealed that the male suspect had fired a shot at a closed gas station and then left the Boyle area, according to a press release from RCMP.
A description of the suspect and his vehicle was then sent to nearby detachments.
Shortly after, Redwater RCMP observed a vehicle matching the description and attempted a traffic stop.
“The vehicle fled, and officers pursued. Fortunately, the vehicle ran out of gas within minutes and the suspect was safely arrested without further incident,” state RCMP.
Sonny Ray Giant of Lac La Biche, was charged with 50 offences after a further investigation revealed that the pickup that he was alleged to be driving had been stolen during the evening from Thorhild County.
Officers also reportedly found three loaded firearms and five unloaded firearms after searching the vehicle.
All eight firearms were determined to have been stolen from a residential break and enter that occurred on June 6, near Smoky Lake, RCMP confirm.
The 40-year-old Lac La Biche man faces charges of firearms offences, possession of stolen property, flight from police, failing to comply with release conditions, and failing to comply with weapon prohibition orders, among many others.
“This is a great example of two detachments working together to bring a quick and safe end to a dangerous situation,” says Sgt. Jeff Sehn, the detachment commander Redwater RCMP.
Giant was remanded in custody by a Justice of the Peace until his next court appearance.
He was scheduled to appear in Morinville Provincial Court on June 9.