DAWSON CREEK, BC: Over the past several weeks the Dawson Creek RCMP have been responding to a number of vehicle thefts and reported break and enters throughout the Dawson Creek area.

On Sunday January 26, 2020, a suspect believed to be responsible for multiple property crime related offences was observed in Dawson Creek in a stolen truck. He was seen again later in the day occupying a second stolen truck. Dawson Creek RCMP attempted to stop the vehicle however it fled from police.

The suspect was involved in two other collisions with civilian vehicles in the community. Dawson Creek RCMP successfully deployed the spike belt, however the suspect intentionally struck multiple police vehicles before the stolen vehicle was stopped completely.

As officers attempted to make the arrest, the suspect displayed a shotgun which he then proceeded to load and point at the officers. A police vehicle struck the stolen vehicle which knocked the suspect off balance, allowing officers to safely arrest the suspect. No gunshots were fired.

“When a firearm was produced, it immediately elevated the dynamics of the situation” said S/Sgt Damon Werrel Detachment Commander Dawson Creek. “Our officers had to react quickly to ensure the safety of everyone, doing what was necessary to prevent a potential deadly outcome.”

The suspect remains in custody with multiple charges being considered relating to possession of stolen property, assault with a weapon, pointing a firearm, and multiple other criminal code and motor vehicle act offences.

One officer did receive injuries during the incident and was taken to hospital for medical treatment.

Written and released by North District RCMP.