SMOKY LAKE – Police from several RCMP detachments across the Lakeland were involved in a December 21 arrest south of Rich Lake involving two suspects after a man in Smoky Lake reported his vehicle had been stolen at gunpoint earlier that day.
In a statement released on December 27, Smoky Lake RCMP report they responded to a firearms complaint in the community at approximately 8:40 p.m. on Dec. 21.
“The victim reported that two suspects brandished a firearm, stole his vehicle and discharged a round. The victim was not hurt in the interaction,” noted the media release.
“Smoky Lake RCMP, with the assistance of Cold Lake RCMP, St. Paul RCMP, Fort Saskatchewan RCMP, Lac La Biche RCMP, Boyle RCMP and Redwater RCMP, located the vehicle northeast of Goodfish Lake.
“One of the suspects surrendered to police and was arrested without incident. The second suspect fled on foot. St. Paul and Cold Lake Police Dog Services were deployed and successfully tracked and apprehended the suspect without incident. During a search of the stolen vehicle, ammunition and a soft body armour were also located.”
As a result of the investigation, Zoe Hicks, 24, and Lawrence Alook, 26, both residents of Edmonton, have been charged with robbery with a firearm.
Alook was additionally charged with discharge firearm with intent, flight from police, dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, four counts of possession of a firearm while prohibited, operating a motor vehicle while prohibited and possession of body armour without a valid permit.
Alook was remanded in custody with the next court date set for Jan. 4, 2024, at the Alberta Court of Justice in Fort Saskatchewan. Hicks was released from custody with the next court date of Jan. 24, 2024, at the Alberta Court of Justice in Fort Saskatchewan.
“Partnership, teamwork and communication was key during this event,” says Sgt. Anita Doktor of the Smoky Lake RCMP. “Big thanks to all the members and units involved.”
