UPDATE: The Portage la Prairie RCMP would like to thank the citizens of Portage and local media for helping to locate the stolen vehicle.
The vehicle was spotted and reported in short order, and Portage RCMP have said additional charges may now be pending for the suspect.
Portage la Prairie RCMP are asking for the public’s help in locating a stolen vehicle after a high-speed incident in the city over the weekend.
According to police, an officer spotted a vehicle travelling westbound at a high rate of speed on the Trans-Canada Highway at approximately 9:00 a.m. on Sunday, July 6. The vehicle entered Portage la Prairie, and the officer turned around with plans to initiate a traffic stop.
The suspect vehicle was observed blowing through stop signs without slowing down, and police say no pursuit was initiated in the interest of public safety.
Suspect identified on Oak Bay
RCMP continued patrolling and soon spotted the same vehicle in the northeast part of the city. The officer found the car on Oak Bay and was able to identify the driver.
The suspect took off again before the officer could approach, and once again, RCMP choose not to pursue.
Roughly 30 minutes later, the suspect was seen walking near 6th Avenue NE and 3rd Street NE. Officers detained the individual without incident and made an arrest a short time later.
The suspect was charged with Dangerous Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Flight from Police, and Resist Arrest. Several Highway Traffic Act tickets are also issued.
Vehicle confirmed stolen from Winnipeg
Police have since learned that the vehicle involved in the incident was reported stolen out of Winnipeg. Despite the arrest, the car itself has not yet been recovered.
RCMP are now looking for a 2018 Hyundai Elantra with a Winnipeg Jets licence plate. The plate number is H19313.
Police say anyone who spots the vehicle or has information about its location is encouraged to contact them directly at 204-857-4445.
No injuries and no pursuit policy followed
Police note that at no point during the incident was a pursuit initiated due to public safety concerns. The suspect’s behaviour, speeding, failing to stop, and fleeing on foot, prompted officers to take a cautious approach throughout the morning.
RCMP say they continue to rely on the community’s help in situations like this to safely recover stolen property.
“If you see the vehicle, do not approach it or the occupants,” remarks RCMP. “Call 911 or your local detachment immediately.”
RCMP continue their investigation and are encouraging residents to report any suspicious activity in the area.
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