SPRINGBROOK - Mounties are seeking the public's help to nab a group of gun-toting and machete-wielding individuals who committed a late evening attack and robbery just outside the hamlet.
Blackfalds RCMP said the incident occurred just south of Springbrook at about 11:15 p.m. on Sept. 27.
Cpl. Brandon Smith said a Springbrook man was robbed and attacked by two or three individuals armed with a firearm and machete-style knife.
Smith said during the struggle the threat of the assailants' firearm was removed, but the attackers proceeded to continue striking the male with a machete-style knife, which caused serious bodily harm.
The male victim then had his vehicle stolen after being attacked, said Smith.
He said the victim was able to walk away from the scene and into Springbrook where a vehicle stopped to give the man assistance with his injuries. Emergency services were called and the victim was transported by ground ambulance to Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre for treatment. Smith said the man's wounds were considered serious but not life-threatening.
Shortly after the attack the victim's stolen vehicle, a 2007 Black Dodge Nitro, was located but was “extensively” damaged, said Smith.
In the meantime, Smith said the RCMP do not believe the victim and the assailants knew each other but police do believe it was a “planned attack.”
“We think it was a planned attack (and) because of the victim fighting back it went worse than what it may have been or would have been,” said Smith. “We haven't established an exact motive yet but we suspect the theft of the vehicle and likely robbery of sorts… wanted to get money, valuables, vehicle or whatever the case, would have been the motive.”
The attack continues to be investigated by Blackfalds RCMP. They are seeking the public's assistance with any relevant information.
“We are asking for any help we can get,” said Smith.
If any citizen has information he or she is asked to contact the Blackfalds RCMP Detachment at 403-885-3300 or call local police. If the citizen wants to remain anonymous, he or she can contact Crime Stoppers by phone at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), or by Internet at www.tipsubmit.com
RCMP Cpl. Brandon Smith
"We think it was a planned attack (and) because of the victim fighting back it went worse than what it may have been or would have been."
