Crown opposed to release of accused shooter

A 37-year-old man accused of firing a gun in the Town of Coaldale and then again at a motorist, remains in custody while he and his lawyer discuss how to best proceed with the case.

Danial Mark Ferguson was set ostensibly for a bail hearing Monday in Lethbridge court of justice, but he was remanded by his own consent and the matter was adjourned until Friday.

Court was told Ferguson has a “significant” criminal record and the Crown is opposed to his release.

Ferguson faces two charges each of pointing a firearm, discharging a firearm with intent, and mischief causing damage under $5,000, as well as single charges of possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, dangerous driving, and failure to comply with release conditions.

Shortly before 5 p.m. last Friday RCMP responded to a report of a shooting at a home in Coaldale. When police arrived the alleged shooter had already left, and was reportedly driving toward Lethbridge on Highway 3. Police said he also shot at another motorist.

The suspect was stopped at the intersection of Highway 3 and 43 Street in Lethbridge, and arrested by RCMP and Lethbridge police.

“A pistol was located in the vehicle and was determined to be a Winchester BB gun replica of a 1911 pistol,” officials said in a news release.

Duty counsel assisted Ferguson during his first court hearing last week, but adjourned it to allow the accused time to retain a lawyer. During Monday’s hearing, at which Ferguson was not required to attend, an agent appeared for Lethbridge lawyer Marcus Mueller and adjourned the matter.