RCMP officer quick to arrest intoxicated theft suspect

By MEDICINE HAT NEWS on March 20, 2026.

newsdesk@medicinehatnews.com

Lawrence Bearshirt, 47, is facing three charges after he allegedly stole items from the Esso in Bassano and threatened to shoot staff late Tuesday night.

RCMP responded to the robbery at 11:15 p.m. on March 17 after Bearshirt placed an unknown quantity of items into his bag and refused to pay.

Police say when confronted by Esso staff, Bearshirt threatened to shoot staff, and officers quickly responded to the threat, locating Bearshirt nearby and placing him under arrest.

No firearms were found on Bearshirt, who was transported to a holding cell for a judicial interim release hearing where he was remanded into custody.

Bearshirt, from Strathmore, has been charged with one count of robbery, one count of uttering threats and one count of theft under $5,000 and appeared before the courts Thursday.

Seatbelt month

RCMP in Alberta remind motorists that wearing a seatbelt is essential to protecting yourself and others on the road if a collision occurs, and have released a PSA encouraging seatbelt safety in March.

Alberta Mounties issued more than 2,300 tickets last year to drivers who were not wearing their seatbelts, resulted in a traffic fine of $162. However, since the province increased several traffic fines on March 13 to improve road safety, seatbelt violations will now cost $211.

“Buckling up, and ensuring other occupants are safely restrained should be your first priority when entering your vehicle,” said Sgt. Darrin Turnbull. “Breaking occupant restraint laws may not only cost a ticket but your life. While airbags offer protection in collision, they are designed to supplement the safety features provided by seatbelts.”

Police remind motorists to ensure seatbelts are securely fastened and worn correctly before and while a vehicle is in motion.

The width of the seatbelt is required to spread the force from a collision across the body and it is not recommended to allow a seatbelt to become twisted.

While off-roading, police say it’s important to buckle up in off-road or recreation vehicles that provide seatbelts.

“Motorists are responsible for ensuring both themselves and passengers under the age of 16 years old are using proper occupant restraints,” adds Turnbull.

The province also increased fines for speeding tickets over 20 km/h and higher, distracted driving, careless driving, stunting, racing, driving without a licence and non-compliant window tint.

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