Northern Alberta Manhunt: Suspect at Large After Terrifying Armed Robbery Attempt in Wabasca

Wabasca, Northern Alberta – A quiet Friday morning was shattered by a terrifying attempted armed robbery at a local gas station, leaving residents on edge and police scrambling to locate a dangerous suspect. RCMP in Wabasca are urging the public for assistance after a man, wielding a handgun, tried to rob a convenience store employee before fleeing the scene empty-handed.

The chilling incident unfolded in the early hours of Friday, October 27, 2023.

According to police, a lone individual entered the gas station, located within the community of Wabasca, and confronted an employee. Brandishing a handgun, the suspect made demands, creating a high-stress situation that could have had devastating consequences.

Fortunately, no physical injuries were reported during the encounter.

The suspect ultimately fled the scene without managing to take any items, a small mercy in an otherwise alarming event. However, the use of a firearm has prompted a serious response from law enforcement. "The Wabasca RCMP is seriously concerned about the use of a handgun in this attempt to commit robbery," stated a police spokesperson, emphasizing the gravity of the situation and the threat this individual poses to community safety.

Authorities have released a detailed description of the perpetrator in hopes that public vigilance will lead to an arrest.

The suspect is described as a man, approximately 5’6” to 5’8” tall, with a medium build. At the time of the attempted robbery, he was seen wearing a dark blue or black hoodie, black pants, a black face mask to conceal his identity, and distinctive white gloves.

Wabasca RCMP has launched a full-scale investigation and is actively working to identify and apprehend the individual responsible.

They are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the incident, noticed suspicious activity in the area during the early hours of Friday, or recognizes the description of the suspect, to come forward.

The safety of the community remains a top priority, and residents are reminded to exercise caution.

Anyone with information regarding this attempted armed robbery is encouraged to contact the Wabasca RCMP detachment directly at 780-891-3700. For those who wish to remain anonymous, tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.crimestoppers.ca. Your cooperation could be crucial in bringing this dangerous individual to justice.