RCMP Traffic Services have charged 25-year-old Kenneth Bustard of Edmonton with dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, flight from police, driving while disqualified, breach of recognizance, breach of probation and assaulting a police officer with a weapon.
RCMP stopped a vehicle on Nov. 12 around 8:45 p.m. for a traffic offence on Highway 1 near the Bourgeau Trailhead west of Banff. The vehicle came to a stop but failed to remain stopped and continued on. Due to safety concerns, police did not pursue the vehicle.
Shortly after, on Highway 1 near the Canmore area, the same vehicle was located by RCMP Traffic Services travelling in westbound lanes and into oncoming traffic. The vehicle would not pull over for the RCMP and a pursuit was initiated due to the risk the driver was possessing to the public.
After a tire deflation device was put out, the vehicle tried to avoid it and swerved toward RCMP members before finally driving over the device, bringing the vehicle to a halt. Inside was one lone male occupant and he was taken into custody. No injuries were suffered from the incident.
Bustard has been released following a bail hearing and will appear in Calgary Provincial Court, Friday (Nov 15).RCMP members from the Traffic Services, Canmore Detachment and Cochrane Detachment were involved.
