News Release - Alberta

Mayerthorpe, Alberta March 3, 2005

On March 3, 2005 at approximately 1000 am RCMP members from Mayerthorpe and Whitecourt Detachment were conducting an investigation at a rural residence near Mayerthorpe when shots were fired.

Officers conducting an investigation at a rural residence near Mayerthorpe came under fire. At this time we are able to state that there was an exchange of gun fire however due concerns for officer safety we are not able to comment on the situation further.

We do have reason to believe the male suspect is armed with a high power rifle. The area has been secured to ensure both police and public safety. Air space over the area has also been closed as a safety precaution.
Tactical resources have been deployed including: RCMP Emergency Response Teams, Major Crimes Unit and General Investigation Section, Edmonton Police Service’s Air One and Canadian Forces Base Edmonton is dispatching armored vehicles.

There has been a lot of concern expressed for the safety and well being of our Officers. The concern is very much appreciated. We are still in the process of responding to an armed and dangerous scene it is imperative we do not release any information that could further jeopardize our members’s safety.

Additional press releases will be issued when information becomes available.

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Media Contact

Wayne A. Oakes, Cpl
Media Relations Officer
RCMP “K” Division
Media & Communications Services

780 - 786 - 2291 Mayerthorpe Det