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Citizen arrest stops truck theft, dangerous driving in Lake Country

The RCMP reminds people to call 911, if they see a crime in progress to prevent dangerous situations
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Screenshot of dashcam footage taken on Oct. 6, by Elexa Tassopoulos Craig

A truck that was stolen from a home in Kelowna, and the suspected thief, were apprehended after a string of dangerous driving incidents culminating with a citizens arrest in Lake Country.

The 2011 Ford F350 was stolen from a residence on the 900 block of Paret Road between the hours of 12 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. on October 6. After posting on social media, the owner of the truck located their vehicle in Carrs Landing at approximately 5:30 p.m.

The owner then allegedly followed the stolen vehicle, as it attempted to flee.

The driver of the stolen vehicle was allegedly driving dangerously and in an attempt to flee, collided with several other vehicles, resulting in "significant damage," said the RCMP.

The dangerous driving prompted witnesses to make calls to the Lake Country and Kelowna RCMP. 

Residents also posted to social media to warn others of the dangerous driving. According to reports online, the stolen F350 was missing a wheel while continuing to weave through traffic.

Lake Country and Kelowna RCMP officers located the stolen truck after it had been abandoned on Highway 97 south of Commonwealth Drive, with significant damage. 

The suspected thief had been apprehended nearby by the truck owner and other individuals prior to police arrival.  

The suspect is known to police and remains in custody. They have been charged with several criminal driving offences and possession of stolen property, said the RCMP.  

“This was an exceptionally dangerous situation and it is very fortunate that no one was injured, including innocent bystanders, the witnesses or the suspect," said Cpl. Ryder Birtwistle, Lake Country detachment commander and media liaison.

Cpl. Birtwistle said that while property crime and theft is taken seriously by the RCMP, public safety supersedes the recovery of stolen property.

"We remind the public that if you see a crime in progress, to report it to police immediately and provide as much detail as possible including suspect description and the direction of travel. The RCMP have specialized resources available including the use of air services and covert vehicles to safely locate and apprehend individuals in similar situations."

 

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Jacqueline Gelineau

About the Author: Jacqueline Gelineau

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