A Penhold boy is still receiving medical treatment and is slated for surgery after being struck by a vehicle on June 27 at an intersection, said Innisfail RCMP.
Police also said provincial highway charges have been laid against the driver of the vehicle. RCMP has not released the name of the driver.
On June 27, a 10-year-old boy received non-life threatening injuries from being hit at a crosswalk in Penhold. The injuries were to his legs. The boy was riding his bike at the time and crossing Hwy. 2A. He was taken to hospital in Red Deer by ambulance.
Penhold fire chief Jim Pendergast said, “When the boy left the scene he was conscious, alert and talking. He was wearing a helmet (at the time of the accident) which helped reduce more serious injuries.”
Innisfail RCMP, Penhold peace officers and EMS all responded to the collision. Traffic was diverted on Hwy. 2A for about an hour.
“All people should stop and get off their bike, press the button or put out their arm, wait for traffic to stop and then walk across when safe to do so,” said Pendergast. “Whenever you are riding a bike, or even walking, and need to cross a busy road, always stop and put out your arm, especially if the lights are not working.” Pendergast warned parents to be extra vigilant during busy traffic.
Cops helping flood victims
Local RCMP is still sending officers to High River to help the town through its flood crisis.
Innisfail RCMP Cpl. Jeff Hildebrandt said the 14-officer detachment has been called upon to assist in the southern Alberta community's ongoing efforts to clean up and restore the town following the devastating flood last month.
“The division has notified us to send resources as required,” said Hildebrandt. “At one time we had three members sent to High River. Right now we have one officer down there.”
He said the Innisfail member in High River is currently assisting the Vehicle Recovery Unit, escorting tow trucks that are removing damaged and abandoned vehicles from the flood-stricken areas of town.
Hildebrandt said the detachment's assistance effort has left Innisfail RCMP understaffed in recent weeks, including the Canada Day long weekend.
Break and enter probed
RCMP is investigating a residential break and enter on 49th Street.
Innisfail RCMP Cpl. Jeff Hildebrandt said police were called at about 9 p.m. on June 27 that 22 long rifles had been stolen from the home.
“This break and enter was specifically for the guns,” said Hildebrandt, adding no other items were stolen from the residence. “We are obviously very concerned these weapons are out in the community illegally.”
He said there was no damage to the home, and the thief or thieves entered the residence by force through the door.
The RCMP continues to investigate. Any citizen with information about this crime is asked to contact Innisfail RCMP at 403-227-3342.
Rash of car thefts reported
RCMP is investigating a sudden rash of car thefts in town that it believes were made for the purpose of joy rides.
Innisfail RCMP Cpl. Jeff Hildebrandt said four vehicles of different models were stolen between June 27 and July 4. All vehicles were subsequently recovered. Another stolen vehicle was recently discovered in Calgary, said Hildebrandt.
“This activity is increasing. There has been a high frequency in recent weeks,” said Hildebrandt.
He is advising citizens to be vigilant about security and to ensure their vehicles are always locked. Hildebrandt added car owners should be careful not to leave money and valuables in clear view for potential thieves.
Any citizen with information about this rash of car thefts is asked to contact Innisfail RCMP at 403-227-3342.
With files from Alf Cryderman
