Red Deer RCMP Apprehend Suspect Following Destructive Vehicle Collision
In a dramatic incident that disrupted the downtown core, Red Deer RCMP have arrested an alleged car thief after a motor vehicle accident caused significant damage to a local business. The collision, which occurred on February 14, sent debris flying into the establishment, shattering its glass walls and triggering an alarm that alerted authorities to the scene.
Crash Details and Immediate Aftermath
Police were called to Gaetz Avenue in Red Deer around midday on February 14th in response to a glass break alarm at a downtown business. Upon arrival, officers quickly determined that the alarm was set off by flying debris from a serious motor collision. The accident involved a black truck that had crashed into a white SUV at the intersection of 50th Street and Gaetz Avenue.
The driver of the white SUV sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital for medical treatment. Meanwhile, the individual operating the black truck fled the scene on foot immediately after the impact. The truck had veered onto the sidewalk during the collision, causing damage to a downtown building and various city properties.
Additional property damage included:- Several lamp posts
- Multiple garbage cans
- A fire hydrant
Investigation Reveals Stolen Vehicle and Suspect Identification
Following a thorough police investigation, it was discovered that the black truck involved in the collision had been reported stolen earlier from Red Deer. The vehicle had also fled from Blackfalds RCMP earlier on the same day, adding to the seriousness of the incident.
Officers were able to identify the driver of the truck, who police described as being well known to law enforcement. The suspect was subsequently arrested on Sunday following the collision.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
The individual taken into custody has been identified as 27-year-old Nathaniel Tardif. He now faces five criminal charges related to the incident, including:
- Dangerous operation of a motor vehicle causing bodily harm
- Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000
Tardif was held for a bail hearing where he was remanded into custody. His next court appearance is scheduled for Tuesday at the Alberta Court of Justice in Red Deer, where the legal proceedings will continue.
Community Impact and Police Response
The incident has highlighted concerns about vehicle theft and reckless driving in the Red Deer area. The collision not only endangered lives but also caused substantial property damage to both private businesses and public infrastructure.
Red Deer RCMP are reminding community members to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity or information regarding criminal behavior in the area. Anyone with information about criminal activity within Red Deer is encouraged to contact the Red Deer RCMP at 403-406-2200.
The swift police response to the business alarm demonstrates the effectiveness of community safety systems, while the subsequent investigation and arrest underscore law enforcement's commitment to holding individuals accountable for dangerous and criminal behavior on Red Deer streets.
