Coquitlam RCMP’s “Strike Force” property crime team struck quickly to recover more than $500,000 worth of hydroelectric equipment stolen earlier this month from a business in Port Coquitlam.
But not before a Mission RCMP vehicle was rammed and a stolen getaway van lost a tire.
According to a news release, the incident started at 7:30 a.m. on Aug. 14, when police were notified of a break and enter at a Port Coquitlam business. A little more than there hours later, they were advised of a stolen yellow 2012 Ford Eco Van from a different business.
The vehicle was equipped with a GPS tracker, though, and the business was able to provide police with its coordinates indicating it was in Mission.
The Strike Force team was quickly dispatched, locating the vehicle — hastily repainted grey all over — on Forest Service Road in Mission.
As officers, along with Mission RCMP and the Integrated Police Dog Services unit, tried to stop the vehicle, its driver allegedly rammed an unoccupied Mission RCMP vehicle and fled, losing a tire and continuing on the rim for a short distance.
When police stopped the van, they arrested the driver and a passenger.
Brian McDonald, 40, faces several charges, including:
- One count of possession of stolen property contrary to Section 355 of the Criminal Code
- One count of dangerous operation of a motor vehicle contrary to Section 320.13 (1) of the Criminal Code
- One count of breaking and entering contrary to Section 348 (1) (b) of the Criminal Code
- One count of flight from peace officer contrary to Section 320.17 of the Criminal Code
- One count of prohibited driving contrary to Section 102 of the Motor Vehicle Act
McDonald remains in custody pending his next court appearance.
An adult female was released on conditions as police continue their investigation.
“This was a dynamic and fluid event with the suspect allegedly attempting to flee and harm responding police officers,” said Coquitlam RCMP spokesperson, Cpl. Alexa Hodgins.
"We are very thankful that no one was seriously injured as there was an increased concern to public safety.”
Anyone with more information is asked to call Coquitlam RCMP at 604-945-1550 and quote file number 2024-21269.
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