Alberta MLAs spar over bizarre police incident in Parkland County

EDMONTON -- Alberta's Shadow Minister for Public Safety David Shepherd is pushing for answers following a recent police incident that saw a handcuffed suspect steal an Alberta Sheriffs vehicle before leading police on a pursuit through Parkland County.

The incident from Feb. 24, 2026, saw the 42-year-old Spruce Grove resident somehow escape police custody before commandeering the cruiser. He then traveled from Gunn to Spruce Grove before finally being stopped by members of the Parkland RCMP. During oral question period on Tuesday, March 10, MLA Shepherd rose in search of answers as to how such an incident could happen.

"The suspect has since been charged with assaulting a peace officer with a weapon, possession of a prohibited firearm, and more," said Shepherd. "To the Minister of Public Safety, what steps have been taken to investigate the circumstances that led to this very real threat to public safety, and ensure it never happens again?" 

Public Safety Minister Mike Ellis wasn't able to offer much of a response to the inquiry, as the matter remains before the courts. However, he did outline that an investigation remains ongoing between local police agencies in the region.

"There are matters that are still before the courts, and a matter of internal processes," said Ellis. "I can tell you that Chief Parhar and his team are investigating to find out what may or may not have taken place; I can tell you there is a great relationship that is occurring right now between the RCMP and our Alberta Sheriffs."

The suspect from the incident -- whose name has yet to be released by police -- racked up over a dozen charges in the incident. The RCMP's Real Times Operation Centre is noted to have played a key role in locating the stolen cruiser.