(File photo/RCMP)
By Liam Verster
North Okanagan

Theft suspect arrested following helicopter pursuit

Jan 5, 2024 | 2:25 PM

A suspect in an alleged theft in Armstrong was arrested after being tracked down from the air.

Vernon North Okanagan RCMP said police responded to a report from a Armstrong homeowner of an unknown man trying to steal a home security system from their residence at approximately 2:45 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 4.

Police attended the scene but the suspect had already fled the property on Wood Ave. using a stolen pick-up truck, which was soon after observed on Otter Lake Rd. driving at a high rate of speed.

“As the RCMP Air Section helicopter was already in the air assisting Search and Rescue in Coldstream, the pilot quickly re-directed to provide assistance to officers on the ground,” Cpl. Tania Finn, media relations officer, stated.

“The helicopter pilot was able to track the pick-up truck and advised officers on the ground the location that the suspect abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot.”

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Local police, with assistance from the Southeast District Emergency Response Team, established a containment area and apprehended the suspect without further incident.

The suspect, a 35-year-old Spallumcheen man, was remanded in custody on numerous criminal charges including dangerous driving and failing to stop for police.

The investigation into the case is ongoing.

by Liam Verster
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