The school in Frog Lake is back to normal Tuesday after being placed on hold and secure on Monday, as police searched for unknown suspects.
Residents had noticed a heavy police presence in the community which Alberta RCMP said was in connection to a search for the suspects believed to be involved in a break and enter.
Police say on Monday December 13th at 11:51 a.m., Bonnyville RCMP were called to a break and enter in progress. They say the homeowner interrupted the suspects who pointed a gun at him.
Officers report the suspects took off in a vehicle which was later located. However, they failed to stop for the police who had to use a tire deflation device near Frog Lake Cree Nation. Police say the suspects abandoned the car and ran into a field. Additional police teams had to be brought in to help in the search.
RCMP resources from Bonnyville, Kitscoty, Elk Point and Cold Lake Detachments; St. Paul RCMP Traffic Services, the Alberta RCMP Emergency Response Team, Alberta RCMP Explosive Disposal Unit (for Unmanned Aerial Vehicle reconnaissance), St. Paul and Cold Lake RCMP Police Dog Services, Alberta RCMP Graphic Services and Saskatchewan RCMP officers from Onion Lake, were called in.
The local school was in a hold and secure state until about 5:30 p.m. RCMP officers supervised the evacuation and loading of buses as students and staff were transported to the Frog Lake Cree Nation band office where parents could pick up their children.
The police presence was scaled down when the RCMP Emergency Response Team left at about 6 p.m.
The investigation yielded a firearm along with other evidence. Police also arrested a 25-year old woman who remains in custody.
Bonnyville RCMP General Investigation Section is leading the investigation. They are asking the public for any information in relation to this incident or identifying those responsible, to please call Bonnyville RCMP at 780-343-7240 or your local police.
Additionally, to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).