Four individuals suspected of stealing from a rural Manitoba property were reportedly confronted by the property owner wielding a gun and firing at their vehicles, according to RCMP. The incident led to charges against the suspects as well as the 66-year-old property owner. The four individuals initially visited the property on August 15 and returned later that evening in two vehicles confirmed to be stolen from Watrous, Sask., RCMP disclosed.
After triggering a motion-activated security camera, the owner, residing in the rural municipality of Dufferin near Carman in south-central Manitoba, went to the property. Confronting the suspects who were allegedly taking fuel, the owner fired shots at the vehicles. Three individuals remained at the scene until police arrived at approximately 10:45 p.m., leading to their apprehension. However, a fourth suspect fled in a stolen vehicle, as per the RCMP release.
Authorities found various items believed to be stolen from the property in the back of a stolen truck used by the suspects. A 29-year-old man is facing charges including theft, mischief, trespassing, possession of stolen property, possession of break-in tools, and non-compliance with prior release conditions. Additionally, he was charged with possession of a weapon for carrying a baseball bat. A 47-year-old man is charged with similar offenses, while a 41-year-old woman is accused of the same crimes pending charges.
The property owner, aged 66, is facing charges of careless use of a firearm, using a firearm in the commission of a crime, and reckless discharge of a firearm. An RCMP spokesperson emphasized that while Canadians have the right to protect themselves and their property, any force used must be reasonable and proportionate to the threat. Property owners are advised to prioritize their safety and contact the police rather than directly confronting intruders to avoid potential risks.
The two male theft suspects remain in police custody, while the woman and the property owner have been released under undertakings. Authorities are actively searching for the individual who fled in the stolen vehicle, which was discovered the following morning in a canola field several kilometers away.