Police say four people have been charged in northern Alberta with kidnapping and several weapons offences, and a fifth suspect is still at large.
The incident in John D’or Prairie, eight hours north of Edmonton, happened last week – on Tuesday – and began with an attempted traffic stop.
Authorities say the vehicle was suspected of being involved in a “recent occurrence” in the community. Police allege the driver drove into two cop cars and attempted to evade officers.
After a pursuit, the vehicle was disabled and five suspects fled on foot, according to police.
RCMP say a sixth person in the vehicle was identified and determined to have been the victim of a kidnapping immediately prior to the traffic stop. The victim was airlifted to hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries.
Four suspects from John D’or Prairie – ranging in age from 21 to 29 – were arrested. Police allege a sawed-off shotgun and replica handgun were seized during the search for the suspects.
They were charged with kidnapping, forcible confinement, assault causing bodily harm, careless use of a firearm, and more. They are scheduled to appear in court on Wednesday.
One suspect remains at large. Police say they know his identity, and a warrant for his arrest is being sought.