A suspect was arrested by RCMP after he allegedly drove a tanker truck containing anhydrous ammonia into the Crossfield Credit Union Nov. 29 in an attempt to gain entry to the building, according to Airdrie RCMP Media Liaison Constable Jennifer Weedmark.
Michael Lamontagne, 47, of Red Deer faces numerous charges.
Airdrie Rural RCMP responding to the call at approximately 4 a.m. encountered the truck attempting to flee southbound on Highway 2A and unsuccessfully tried to initiate a traffic stop.
RCMP continued to pursue the suspect through Carstairs and Olds. Ultimately, Lamontagne began driving northbound in the southbound lanes of Highway 2, eventually crashing in a field near Bowden.
A brief pursuit of Lamontagne on foot by RCMP ensued. He was finally caught and placed under arrest.
According to Weedmark, RCMP was able to determine the truck was originally stolen from the Red Deer area. Lamontagne is also believed to have been involved in a number of other offences in Red Deer.
Drugs and alcohol are not believed to be a factor, and Weedmark said police are continuing to investigate.
Weedmark said Lamontagne has been charged with breaking and entering with intent, three counts of mischief – two of these are over $5,000 – causing danger to life, dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, operation of a motor vehicle while being pursued by police and possession of stolen property over $5,000.
Lamontagne appeared in court Dec. 1. The outcome of that appearance was not known at press time. Weedmark said he is known to RCMP.
Hit and Run
No one was seriously injured when a car was forced off the road by another vehicle Nov. 21 on Highway 1, approximately two kilometres west of Highway 22.
According to Cochrane RCMP, a motorist driving a black Toyota Corolla eastbound at approximately 4 p.m. first noticed a light-coloured pickup truck following very close behind his vehicle.
The pickup then went into the passing lane, swerved and collided with the Toyota, forcing it to hit a guard rail and rollover in the median.
RCMP is now looking for the pickup truck, described as being likely a Dodge Ram 1500 or Ford F150.
If you have any information about any crime, contact your local RCMP detachment or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at tipsubmit.com
