On April 19, 2024, High Prairie RCMP received a report of gunshots at a residence in Atikameg, Alta. Upon arrival, RCMP was informed that the suspects had left aboard a black pickup truck. High Prairie RCMP spotted the vehicle, who failed to stop when prompted, and began to pursue the vehicle and call in assistance. Members from Slave Lake RCMP, Faust RCMP and Red Earth Creek RCMP, as well as Alberta RCMP Police Dog Services, responded to assist. Slave Lake RCMP members deployed a Tire Deflation Device, causing the vehicle to slow down and eventually come to stop. Two suspects fled the scene while one remained. Alberta RCMP Police Dog services led the chase, ending with all three suspects arrested and no major injuries reported.

A search of the vehicle incidental to arrest resulted in the seizure of two rifles along with ammunition.

As a result of the investigation, the following were arrested:

  • Kelly Blanche Cardinal (26), a resident of Peace River, Alta., was charged with:
    • Possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose (x2);
    • Other Firearm-related offences (x3)
    • Dangerous driving;
    • Failure to stop for peace officer;
    • Possession of property obtained by crime; and
    • Failure to comply with order (x3).
  • Jack George Auger (24), a resident of Atikameg, was charged with:
    • Possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose (x2);
    • Other Firearm-related offences (x5)
    • Dangerous driving;
    • Failure to stop for peace officer;
    • Obstruct police officer; and
    • Possession of property obtained by crime.
  • Kevin Badger (22), a resident of Gift Lake Metis Settlement, Alta., was charged with:
    • Possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose (x2);
    • Other Firearm-related offences (x5);
    • Dangerous driving;
    • Obstruct police officer;
    • Failure to stop for police officer;
    • Possession of property obtained by crime; and
    • Failure to comply with order or recognizance (x8).

Cardinal, Auger and Badger were brought before a justice of the peace and remanded into custody. They are to appear at the Alberta Court of Justice in High Prairie on May 6, 2024.

“This is a great example of how Slave Lake RCMP works hand in hand with our neighbouring partners to apprehend violent criminals that threaten our communities” said Slave Lake RCMP Detachment Commander S/Sgt. Casey BRUYNS. “Repeat and prolific offenders are a priority that our detachment, along with the Town of Slave Lake, have agreed to focus on in the coming year.”

Information provided by High Prairie RCMP