The Lake Country RCMP say they arrested a suspect allegedly involved in the theft and dangerous operation of a vehicle, thanks to the help of a few civilians.
On Sunday, between midnight and 9:30 am, a 2011 Ford F350 was stolen from a house in the 900-block of Paret Road Kelowna, the police say.
At about 5:30 pm, the truck was spotted by the owner on Carrs Landing where they reportedly began to follow the fleeing vehicle, which was travelling at a high rate of speed.
During the pursuit, the Lake Country RCMP received several calls reporting the stolen truck being operated dangerously and hitting several other vehicles.
The vehicles that were in the truck's path were left with “significant” damage, the RCMP say.
The Lake Country and Kelowna RCMP finally located the truck abandoned on highway 97 south of Commonwealth Drive with significant damage.
According to the police, the owner of the truck and other people were able to apprehend the suspect before police arrived.
The suspect, who is “known to police,” remains in custody and is facing several criminal charges related to driving offences and possession of stolen property.
“This was an exceptionally dangerous situation and it is very fortunate that no one was injured, including innocent bystanders, the witnesses or the suspect,” says Cpl. Ryder Birtwistle.
“The RCMP take property crime very seriously however, the public safety of individuals is paramount and far supersedes the recovery of stolen property.”
Although the group of civilians helped track down the suspect, the Lake Country RCMP strongly encourage people that if they see a crime in progress to always call the RCMP. for the safest arrest.
Cpl. Birtwistle says the RCMP are better equipped to handle potentially dangerous situations and can use air services or undercover vehicles to aid in an arrest.
Thumbnail photo credit: BC Highway Patrol file picture
