Sask. man who offered ride had truck stolen at gunpoint, RCMP say

Battlefords RCMP have arrested two men following a vehicle theft involving a firearm early Thursday morning.

Police say officers were called at about 3:00 a.m. on April 2 after a truck was stolen at gunpoint just outside North Battleford.

According to RCMP, a man driving a truck stopped to offer a ride to two men walking along the road. Police say the two passengers pointed a firearm at the driver, threatened him and took control of the truck.

The victim was able to escape before the suspects drove away southbound on Highway 4. Police say the firearm was discharged, but no injuries were reported.

Shortly after, RCMP located the stolen truck still travelling on Highway 4 and attempted a traffic stop. Police say the driver did not stop, and officers deployed a tire deflation device, which the truck struck.

The suspects abandoned the truck on Red Pheasant Cree Nation and fled on foot. With help from RCMP police dog services, officers arrested both suspects shortly after 3:30 a.m.

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A shotgun was recovered at the scene. Police say no injuries were reported.

As a result of the investigation, 29-year-old Austin Crevier of Edmonton faces numerous charges, including robbery with a firearm, using a firearm during the commission of an offence, flight from police and dangerous operation of a vehicle. He was also wanted on a warrant from Alberta for multiple firearms-related offences.

Thirty-one-year-old Bobby Lacombe of Fishing Lake First Nation is charged with offences including robbery with a firearm, using a firearm during the commission of an offence and resisting arrest.

Police say he was also wanted on warrants from Alberta and on a Canada-wide parole warrant.

Both men are scheduled to appear in North Battleford provincial court on April 6.