Ponoka County resident arrested following police chase

WETASKIWIN -- A resident of Ponoka County was arrested following a police chase through central Alberta.

The initial charges against 25-year-old Noah McKinney stemmed from an incident in Wetaskiwin from Sept. 23, 2026. McKinney is alleged to have threatened a local youth with a firearm at a skatepark. An investigation was immediately launched involving numerous police resources and crossing over several jurisdictions. McKinney was quickly identified and following the execution of a search warrant, an arrest warrant was issued.

"On Oct. 15, 2026, Wetaskiwin RCMP, with the assistance of the RCMP Emergency Response Team, and RCMP Air Services, located the suspect driving around the area of Wetaskiwin County," said Cpl. Gina Slaney. "Police attempted to stop the suspect, at which time he elected to flee at a high rate of speed ending in a crash and foot pursuit. The suspect then proceeded to resist arrest, and after a very brief struggle, the suspect was quickly subdued and taken into custody."

As a result, the 25-year-old Ponoka County resident is facing numerous charges:

•             Unauthorized possession of a firearm
•             Pointing a firearm
•             Possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose
•             Flight from Police
•             Resisting arrest
•             Failing to comply with a release order

Mckinney was remanded in custody and made his first court appearance today.