Accused identified in rural ATM robberies; second suspect sought
By Medicine Hat News on November 27, 2019.
A 26-year-old male has been charged in relation to smash-and-grab ATM thefts in Oyen and Hanna. Rick Ernest Atzler of Fawett, Alta., was charged Sunday following a pursuit across eastern Alberta, involving the Wainwright; Provost; Vermillion; Consort; Coronation; Oyen and Hanna RCMP detachments. He faces charges of robbery with a firearm, pointing a firearm, theft over $5,000, dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, fail to stop for police from Hanna, as well as failure to stop for police, two counts of possession of property obtained through crime and six firearm offences from Consort. Police say the investigation of the ATM thefts is ongoing and charges against Atzler are pending from Oyen, Coronation and Provost detachments. Atzler, who is remanded in custody, is scheduled to appear in court Nov. 28 in Hana and Nov. 29 in Coronation. Police are also looking to track down a second suspect. The RCMP are requesting that any member of the public who was on the road and affected by this pursuit in any manner contact the Hanna detachment at 403-854-3393. 8-7
