A firearms complaint followed by a reported residential fire in Goodfish (Whitefish) Lake in the early morning hours of Dec. 30 are believed to be connected, according to updated information from RCMP. Three people have also been arrested by police.
On Saturday at about 3:20 a.m., St. Paul RCMP responded to an alleged firearms complaint in Goodfish Lake, which is located about 68 km north west of St. Paul.
"Police had received information that multiple people were at a residence with firearms," according to information from RCMP.
Police arrived at the residence, but the suspects had already left.
"A short time later, the suspects were observed driving in a vehicle. Simultaneously, while RCMP members were investigating the firearms complaint, [police] received an additional complaint of a residential fire," also in Goodfish Lake. "It is believed the two occurrences are connected."
St. Paul RCMP, with help from Lloydminster and Cold Lake Police Dog Services, RCMP Air Services, RCMP Emergency Response Team and multiple surrounding detachments contained the area and located three suspects without further incident.
"As a result of the investigation, three people have been arrested. The two males and one female, who cannot be named until an information is sworn, have been held in police custody pending a judicial interim hearing," according to information from police.
RCMP believe this was a targeted incident and there is no concern for public safety. More information will be provided when it is available, say police.
RCMP are seeking public assistance in this investigation. Please contact the St. Paul RCMP at 780-645-8870 or your local police if you have any information.
If you see a crime in progress, dial 911. If you want to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the "P3 Tips" app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.
