RCMP probes Hanwell break-ins, assault
Tips sought on suspect who rammed cruiser with U-Haul truck, fled from scene, almost struck officer deploying tire-deflation device on side of Highway 3 on Monday night
A male suspect confronted by police while in the process of breaking into a Hanwell business Monday night rammed an RCMP cruiser before fleeing the scene, the Mounties report.
The Keswick detachment of the RCMP issued a news release Tuesday evening, seeking tips from the public about a suspect wanted in an investigation into two break-ins and an assault on a police officer Monday night.
“On Nov. 18, 2024, at approximately 10:50 p.m., members of the Keswick RCMP detachment responded to a report of a break, enter and theft in progress at a business on Timothy Avenue in Hanwell,” it said.
As officers were about to reach the location, they learned of a second break, enter and theft in progress nearby, the release said, and officers found a man loading stolen property into a U-Haul vehicle.
“The man jumped in the driver's seat of the U-Haul and attempted to strike the police cruiser head-on, but struck the front passenger side before fleeing the scene,” the RCMP stated.
“The suspect had also attempted to strike the responding security guard's vehicle when they responded to the first break, enter and theft.”
Officers followed the U-Haul southbound on Highway 3 and attempted to deploy a tire-deflating device to stop it, it said.
“The driver of the U-Haul deliberately swerved towards the police officer while he was standing roadside, forcing the officer to jump in the ditch to avoid being struck,” the release said.
“The police officer sustained minor injuries at the time of the incident.”
The suspect was able to escape from police, it said.
The investigation also led police to discover the same suspect stole fuel from a business in Ripples at approximately 10:13 a.m. Monday as well, the release said.
The RCMP released security-footage stills of the suspect and the U-Haul truck. The vehicle is about 15 feet long, might have damage to its front end and has an Arizona licence plate AG66559.
“The suspect is believed to be dangerous and should not be approached by members of the public,” the release said. “If you see him, call 911 immediately.”
The RCMP is urging anyone who might have been in the Ripples area Monday morning or in the Hanwell area that night, and witnessed suspicious activity; anyone who recognizes the individual or truck; or anyone who might have information that could further the ongoing investigation to call the Keswick RCMP at 506-357-4300.
Those wishing to provide information anonymously can do so through Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), downloading the secure P3 Mobile App or visiting Secure Web Tips online at www.crimenb.ca.
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