Local News

As of Monday afternoon (September 15), a restricted fire order is in effect for all of Red Deer County.  

The County requires that:  

a) All outdoor fires presently burning within Red Deer County whether set with permission or under permit of the County, will remain valid for the duration of the permit

The Grande Prairie Police Service is proudly celebrating the graduation of its second class of recruits. Fourteen new police officers were honoured at a ceremony held at Teresa Sargent Hall on September 12, 2025, surrounded by dignitaries, family, and colleagues. 

As part of Rail Safety Week, (September 15-21) the Alberta RCMP and CN Police are reminding Albertans to take precautions around railway tracks and crossings to help prevent tragedies.

In 2024, there were 35 reported collisions at railway crossings across Alberta, resulting in 12 fatalities.

Officials say many of these incidents were preventable with increased awareness and safer behaviour.

A local bike program delivered hundreds of bicycles to people in need throughout the community.

On Sept. 10, Lil Hoots Family Boutique announced its final delivery for the annual community bike program.

The program, run alongside Joker Bicycle Co, led to over 400 bicycles being donated throughout 2025.

"I've always worked on bikes," said Jake, owner of Joker Bicycle Co, "We've had a few people donate a few parts that we're very grateful for, but most of my funding comes from the normal bike shop duties that I do."

With just over a month until the municipal election, candidates have been announcing reelection plans, putting up signs, and talking to voters.

One of those people is Richard Wegener, who is trying to make it back to the council chambers for a second term.

The Town of Olds Fire Department (OFD) has received funding from TC Energy through its Build Strong social impact program to enhance its advanced drone program.

The funding will be used to purchase a drone along with supporting equipment and software, strengthening OFD’s ability to respond to emergencies.

Over the past year, the department has participated in a groundbreaking “Drone as a First Responder” study in partnership with the University of Alberta.

A day-long manhunt for a Fort St John man with warrants resulted in additional charges after an early-afternoon arrest near Peace Island Park in Taylor, BC.

On September 11, 2025, at approximately 9:55 am the Fort St John Street Enforcement Team (SET), Peace-Liard Police Dog Services (PDS), the North District Emergency Response Team (ERT) and Fort St John RCMP Frontline members executed a Feeney Warrant at a residence in Fort St John with the assistance of a Tactical Armoured Vehicle.

The Saskatchewan New Democratic Party is demanding Premier Scott Moe remove MLA Doug Steele from his position as Government Caucus Chair following testimony in an ongoing human trafficking trial that has resumed in Rosetown. 

The Red Deer Public Schools (RDPS) Board of Trustees has approved a motion to advocate for provincial coverage of COVID-19 vaccinations for teachers and school staff.

At a meeting on September 10, Board member Angela Sommers highlighted the importance of protecting school staff, who play a critical role in maintaining the health, safety, and continuity of learning for students across Alberta.

With COVID-19 continuing to circulate, vaccinations remain a key tool in safeguarding both staff and students.

On Sept. 6, 2025, around 3:10 a.m., Grande Cache RCMP responded to reports of a man who had just been assaulted by several people, possibly up to 4, near Grande Cache Community High Schol. EMS was on scene and tended to the victim while he spoke to police, stating they had stolen from him and identifying one suspect. The victim was then transported by EMS to the hospital with serious non-life-threatening injuries. One suspect was later located and arrested, though RCMP are still trying to identify the other suspects.