Wood Buffalo RCMP investigates shots fired, suspects arrested

May 19, 2026 - Fort McMurray, Alberta
From: Alberta RCMP

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Fort McMurray, Alta. – On May 16, 2026 at approximately 3:18am, Wood Buffalo RCMP responded to multiple 9-1-1 calls for shots fired near the garbage dump in Chipewyan Prairie First Nation, south of Fort McMurray. RCMP patrolled the area and found a black Ford F-150 stuck in a field near the dump. As officers approached the vehicle and attempted a traffic stop, the driver continued to rev its engine and spin its tires. The driver eventually complied with Police demands and exited the vehicle. The individual was arrested without incident. A passenger in the vehicle was also arrested without incident. 

During a search of the vehicle incidental to arrest, Police located and seized:

• Two loaded, black pump action short barrel shotguns;
• Ammunition; and
• Illegal cigarettes.

Police found the serial number had been removed on one of the seized firearms and located spent ammunition on the ground near the driver side window of the truck. The driver was also found to be bound by three firearms prohibition orders at the time of their arrest.

A 40-year-old resident of Chipewyan Prairie First Nation, is facing charges:

• Two counts Unauthorized possession of a firearm;
• Two counts Possession of a firearm knowing its possession is unauthorized;
• Two counts Possession of a firearm in a motor vehicle;
• Possession of a firearm with tampered serial number;
• Two counts Careless use of a firearm; and
• Four counts Weapons possession contrary to order.

They were held for a Judicial Interim Release Hearing and was remanded into custody. They are set to appear in the Alberta Court of Justice in Fort McMurray on May 20, 2026. 

The passenger, a 39-year-old resident of Chipewyan Prairie First Nation, is facing charges:

• Careless use of a firearm
• Two counts Possession of a firearm in a motor vehicle;
• Possession of a restricted firearm with ammunition without licence / registration; and
• Possession of a firearm with tampered serial number.

This individual was released on an Undertaking with Conditions. They are set to appear in the Alberta Court of Justice in Fort McMurray on June 17, 2026. 

The Wood Buffalo RCMP asks the public to promptly report suspicious behaviour, as early reporting supports effective response and ongoing investigations. By working together, the RCMP and community members can help reduce crime and enhance neighbourhood safety. Anyone with information regarding crime in their community is asked to contact the Wood Buffalo RCMP at (780) 788‐4000 or 310-RCMP (7267). If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1‐800‐222‐8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.

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