Brooks RCMP were busy in the frigid weather

Break and Enter in Duchess

On January 18th, 2024 at 5:45 am, Brooks RCMP responded to a report of a Break and Enter to the Duchess Station Convenience store. Police attended scene and determined 3 suspects (2 males and 1 female) entered into the business through a broken window. A large amount of tobacco products, vaping equipment and lottery tickets were stolen. The suspects left in a vehicle but no description of the vehicle has been obtained yet. Police collected CCTV and evidence on scene which is being processed to identify the suspects. The investigation is ongoing.

If you have any information regarding this investigation, please contact the Brooks RCMP at 403-794-4400. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 /9TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.

Commercial Vehicle on Fire:

On January 16th at 2:00 pm, Brooks RCMP reported to a report of a commercial vehicle on fire at Hwy 36 and Township Rd 184. Reports were that a tanker was fully engulfed in flames. Brooks RCMP attended along with Brooks Fire Dept and the rear portion of the trailer was on fire due to a mechanical/brake issue. Luckily the tanker was empty and no environmental/hazardous issues were identified. There were no persons injured and no other vehicles damaged. The tanker was towed for repair.

Traffic Collisions and Snow:

On January 16th, 2024, Brooks RCMP responded to several minor vehicle collisions, mostly due to the snow and ice. No serious injuries were received as a result of these collisions, however most seemed to be avoidable as they were speed related for the weather conditions. Several vehicles had slid and were left on the side of roadways until able to be recovered by the tow companies. Police routinely get multiple calls on vehicles left abandoned and when attended will leave Police Caution tape on the vehicle to identify it as being reported and no persons in peril to other motorists.

“Please slow down, leave extra time for your travels, leave extra distance between you and the other vehicles and drive your speed relative to the road conditions. Just because the speed limit signs may say 110 km/hr – that does not mean you have to go that speed if the road and weather conditions are not safe. You are best to arrive SAFE rather than FIRST at your destination” says Cpl. Joe Schmidt.

Man Arrested on Canada Wide Warrant:

On January 12th, Brooks RCMP completed offender management monitoring and identified a Brooks resident in breach of several of his parole conditions, stemming from previous criminal convictions. A Canada Wide Warrant was issued for 34-year-old Brooks, AB, resident, Mathew Perini. Brooks RCMP located and arrested Perini who was held in Medicine Hat remand to await further Court appearances.

Cold Weather Conditions:

From January 12th to January 15th, Brooks RCMP responded to several motor vehicle collisions and motor vehicle issues deriving from the bitter cold conditions. Tow truck companies have been extremely busy during these times resulting in long wait times for motorists to have their vehicle recovered. Police are reminding and requesting during these inclement weather conditions to be prepared for any emergency. Have extra clothing, sleeping bags, phone and charger and be prepared to keep yourself warm while awaiting any recovery efforts. Operation Cold Start:

From January 8th to January 12th, Brooks RCMP participated in Operation Cold Start. A province wide initiative to inform the public about the risks of leaving their vehicle running during cold weather and the high increases of thefts of the vehicles. In the early morning hours each day that week, Brooks RCMP Members located an approx. total of 105 vehicles running with no one in them. Many of the vehicles were equipped with remote start features, which is encouraged. However, approximately 50 vehicles were located with their keys left inside while running and completely unattended. Most were left unlocked as well. We understand the needs to have your vehicle warmed up and thawed out, however, all preventative measures to protect it from being stolen should be taken.