Buffalo Narrows RCMP recovered a baby safe and sound after being the passenger of a stolen vehicle.
RCMP say they received a call from a distressed woman early Thursday morning who told officers her vehicle was stolen by a male passenger while her baby was still inside.
RCMP detachments from Buffalo Narrows, Beauval, and La Loche began a search for the stolen vehicle.
A little over an hour later the vehicle was found on Highway 55 south of Buffalo Narrows.
RCMP say the male driver was found asleep In the driver’s seat.
After several attempts to wake the man went unsuccessful officers say they had to break the passenger window.
The child was found safe and asleep in their car seat.
“The fast response of the officers conducting immediate patrols on roadways is what led us to locate the child. Police officer familiarity with the area was also critical,” said Shawn Carter, the Buffalo Narrows RCMP Detachment Commander. “I can say without a doubt the two officers who located the child were extremely relieved – all of us at the detachment were. A million what-ifs run through your head during a call like this. It was an unforgettable moment to reunite the child with mom.”
18-year-old Riley Lemaigre, of Prince Albert, is facing several charges including kidnapping and impaired driving.
He will have a court appearance in La Loche on Monday.