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UPDATE: Shooting suspect arrested by Wetaskiwin/Camrose RCMP

Rimbey RCMP had responded to a complaint of an armed robbery at the Bluffton City General Store
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The man identified as the suspect in an Oct. 16 armed robbery in Bluffton was arrested by Wetaskiwin/Camrose RCMP following a track by Police Dog Services, on Oct. 20.

Thanks to the public and Edmonton Police Service assistance, the male and female involved in the robbery were identified as of Oct. 19th.

Charges were sworn against Brian Daniel Spence, 28, and a warrant was issued for his arrest.

AT 10:15 a.m. on Oct. 20th, Wetaskiwin/Camrose RCMP became aware that Spence was in a stolen vehicle near Ohaton.

The stolen vehicle broke down and Spence fled on foot. Several RCMP resources were deployed to contain the area he was in, and to locate him.

Police Dog Services (PDS) and the RCMP helicopter provided assistance.

A significant track by PDS led to the RCMP locating Spence hiding in an outbuilding on a farm property.

A high risk arrest was conducted and he was taken into custody. At the time of his arrest, Spence was wanted as well on an arrest warrant issued for Killam Detachment.

The truck that Spence was travelling in was stolen from Vegreville on Oct. 19.

For his actions connected to the armed robbery, Spence is facing six criminal charges including aggravated assault and robbery.

No charges have been laid against the 30-year-old female passenger associated to the robbery in Bluffton.

RCMP are investigating the possibility that she may have been threatened and coerced into her participation. The investigation into that aspect of the robbery continues.

“I’m pleased that no one was (seriously) hurt, and happy to see a swift resolution to this disturbing violent robbery” says Sgt. Pierre St-Cyr of the Rimbey RCMP Detachment.

“We’re thankful for EPS assistance in the identification of the accused. The support and work provided by our units; Forensic Identification Section, General Investigation Section, Air Services, PDS, Wetaskiwin RCMP, Wetaskiwin Integrated Traffic and the Alberta Sheriffs Branch showcases the value in the partnership of our various units and agencies.”

At 6:20 a.m. on Oct. 16, Rimbey RCMP responded to a complaint of an armed robbery at the Bluffton City General Store.

When confronted outside, the suspect fired a shot from what is believed to a small calibre firearm which struck the store clerk. The clerk was transported to a hospital with a non life-threatening injury.

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