An Okotoks man has been charged after reportedly firing shots at a couple of people he spotted rummaging through his vehicles this past weekend.
According to Okotoks RCMP, the homeowner caught two men breaking into vehicles on his property early Saturday morning and fired shots at them.
One of the alleged suspects was eventually taken to hospital under guard after police found him with a wounded arm. The other suspect fled the scene and as of Monday, had not been identified.
While the break-in suspect is facing charges, the homeowner is as well. Police said the incident should serve as a reminder to people that they can’t fire a gun at someone to protect their property.
Edouard Maurice, the homeowner, was arrested on Saturday and is now facing charges of aggravated assault, pointing a firearm and careless use of a firearm.
He has been released from custody and is scheduled to appear in court on March 9.
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The suspect, identified as Ryan Watson, was discharged from medical care on Sunday and then taken into custody. He faces charges of trespassing by night, mischief to property, theft under $5,000, possession of methamphetamine and failure to comply with probation.
He appeared in court in Calgary on Monday.
Police are continuing to work to identify the second suspect and ask anyone with information to contact Okotoks RCMP at 403-955-6400 or to contact Crime Stoppers.