Male suspect sought for rash of property crimes

Police are still searching for a suspect believed to be connected to a series of recent property crimes in West Kelowna after he successfully evaded police on foot Thursday afternoon.

West Kelowna RCMP responded to reports of a possible impaired driver in the 1500 block of Merlot Drive shortly before 1 p.m.

When police arrived on scene, they recognized the male as a suspect they believed was connected to recent criminal activity in the area, said Cpl. Jesse O’Donaghey.

The male fled from his vehicle on foot when approached by officers.

RCMP flooded the Mission Hill area and set up containment with the help of police dog services and air services, said O’Donaghey.

“An extensive search unfortunately failed to turn up the suspect,” he said.

“However, our police service dog recovered a bag, which contained a loaded firearm.”

Out of caution, RCMP advised officials at Chief Tomat Elementary to lock down the school.

“Public safety is a top priority for us, and we’d like to thank the students, staff and parents of those who attend the school for their patience and understanding during the unfolding event,” said O’Donaghey.

Police seized the suspect’s vehicle, a silver Cadillac, at the scene and located what they believe to be stolen property inside the vehicle.

The suspect is described as a Caucasian male, about five-foot-seven, weighing 140 pounds with short hair.

He was last seen wearing grey sweatpants, a black T-shirt and a flat-brimmed hat.

While searching for that suspect, officers encountered a black Ford Mustang seen travelling at high speeds through school zones.

Officers thought the driver may be the suspect they were looking for and continued monitoring the vehicle from the sky.

Police tracked down the Ford Mustang abandoned along Briarwood Road and took a man and woman into custody.

The 27-year-old Kelowna man, wanted on unrelated warrants for his arrest and a 28-year-old West Kelowna woman have each been identified and have been ruled out as being connected to the original incident, said O’Donaghey.

They each face potential charges and remain in police custody.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the RCMP at 250-768-2880 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-2228477 to remain anonymous.