Spruce Grove resident facing multiple charges after stealing police cruiser

SPRUCE GROVE -- A Spruce Grove resident is facing multiple charges after stealing a police cruiser and fleeing from authorities. 

RCMP say the incident unfolded on Feb. 24, 2026, at 10:12 p.m., when police were advised that an Alberta Sheriff's patrol vehicle had been stolen by a suspect who had already been arrested and handcuffed. Somehow, the suspect was able to use the vehicle to flee from police from Gunn to Spruce Grove.

With the help of the RCMP Real Times Operation Centre, the patrol vehicle was located, and a police pursuit began. RCMP say they were able to successfully deploy a Tire Deflation Device, however, the cruiser continued to drive on flat tires. When the accused attempted to drive into Spruce Grove, police then forcefully pushed the vehicle into the ditch.

"The accused successfully drove out of the ditch and entered oncoming traffic," said the Mounties in a statement. "An Alberta RCMP cruiser made contact with the accused's vehicle and disabled it."

The 42-year-old Spruce Grove resident was taken to hospital to be treated for injuries, and has charges pending for:

• Flight from police
• Escape lawful custody
• Theft of MV
• Dangerous Operation of MV
• Assault P.O. with weapon
• Unauthorized possession of a firearm in a motor vehicle
• Possession of a Prohibited / Restricted firearm
• Possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose
• Mischief over $5,000
• Fail to comply with release order (x5)

The accused's name will be released once the information is sworn.