Wood Buffalo RCMP investigate assault and impaired driving – suspect charged

October 7, 2026 - Fort McMurray, Alberta
From: Alberta RCMP

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Fort McMurray, Alta – On Sept. 17, 2026, at approximately 12:53 a.m. Wood Buffalo RCMP responded to a report of an assault at the Rivers Casino, located in the downtown area of Fort McMurray. Upon police arrival the suspect was arrested for assault and released on an undertaking. Two victims were identified with one victim sustaining minor injuries that did not require medical attention. 

A couple hours later, at approximately 2:18 a.m. while conducting a check stop on the Athabasca River Bridge on Hwy 63, the same suspect was pulled over operating a vehicle. A breath demand was made of the suspect where they failed and was subsequently arrested for operation while impaired. The suspect refused to exit their vehicle and fled from the traffic stop. Due to public safety concerns, a pursuit was not initiated.

At approximately 3:20 a.m. Wood Buffalo RCMP located the suspect vehicle and suspect at their residence. The suspect was arrested without further incident.  

A 33-year-old resident of Fort McMurray is facing charges:

• 2 counts of assault;
• Operation while impaired;
• Failure or Refusal to comply with demand; and
• Obstruction of Peace Officer.

The individual has since been released from police custody and is set to appear in the Alberta Court of Justice in Fort McMurray on November 4.

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