News release

Drive-thru “emergency” call results in impaired driving suspension

April 23, 2026 - Red Deer, Alberta
From: Alberta RCMP

Content

Red Deer, Alta. – On Apr. 19, 2026, 2026, shortly after 4 a.m., Red Deer RCMP received a 911 call from an individual, requesting assistance at a downtown fast-food restaurant. The individual reported staff at the restaurant were demanding they leave, though the individual stated they had not done anything wrong and had driven 35 minutes to get a burger. 

RCMP attended the location and found a car in the parking lot along with the caller. Police spoke to the male who said he did not like how staff was speaking to him. The male admitted to being intoxicated and advised police he waited for them to come as he still wanted a burger. 

Police spoke to staff on site who advised they had explained to the individual that their systems were not working and they were not able to serve them. 

Investigation led police to determine that the individual was the driver of the car. After observing signs of intoxication, police demanded they provide a breath sample.  The 38-year-old resident of Sylvan Lake, refused to provide a sample and was issued an Immediate Roadside Sanction (IRS) Fail and vehicle seizure under the Traffic Safety Act.

Red Deer RCMP remind all drivers to plan ahead and arrange a designated driver if you have consumed alcohol or other intoxicating substances. There is no room on our roads for impaired drivers. 

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