Brooks RCMP respond to pair of hit and runs; provide tips for Teen Dating Violence Awareness month

By MEDICINE HAT NEWS on February 15, 2025.

newsdesk@medicinehatnews.com

Police in Brooks are investigating two separate hit-and-run collisions that occurred throughout the week, along with complaints about thefts from vehicles, a firearm threat and a disturbing the peace call at the A&W restaurant.

RCMP responded to a single-vehicle collision on Birch Street after a blue Dodge Dakota struck a stop sign on Feb. 10 at 4:30 p.m. Police say the Dodge was turning onto Birth Street and slid through the intersection, striking the sign and causing damages.

When officers arrived on scene the driver had already fled the scene.

Three days later on Feb. 13, police received a call after a parked Blue Hyundai Santa Fe was struck by a vehicle in the parking lot of Home Time BBQ, sometime before 10 a.m.

An investigation is ongoing and police are asking anyone with information on the unknown vehicle involved to phone the Brooks detachment.

During that same evening on Feb. 13, RCMP responded to several complaints of thefts from vehicles which occurred the previous night on Feb. 12. Police say those investigations remain ongoing and are reminding residents to ensure vehicles are locked and any valuables are removed or hidden.

A male was arrested from Brooks Health Centre after being removed by security for claiming he had a firearm and was intending to use it if he was not allowed back in.

Police responded to the call and quickly arrested the suspect shortly after 10:20 a.m. on Feb. 12. They confirmed he did not have a firearm.

The male was arrested and charged with uttering threats and has been released with conditions. His first court appearance is scheduled for April 23.

Police also issued a verbal warning to a man following a report of an unwanted person disturbing staff and customers at A&W on Feb. 11 shortly after 7 p.m.

When police arrived the man had already left the establishment. Police say the restaurant declined to press charges but requested that the male not return.

Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month

Brooks RCMP are providing the public safety tips and warning signs of unhealthy relationships during the month of February.

Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month is recognized throughout North America to raise awareness about teen dating violence and focuses month-long efforts on advocacy and education to stop dating abuse before it starts.

Police say one in three teens experience physical, emotional or digital dating abuse and have provided a list of tips over social media to educate and support individuals affected by abusive relationships.

Warning signs of an unhealthy relationship include controlling behaviour that includes “telling you what to do, who to talk to, or what to wear.” Police say jealousy and possessiveness are also red flags.

Police say other red flags include your partner making you feel guilty or scared to leave the relationship, or is isolating you from family friends.

“You deserve a love that is safe, respectful and free from fear,” reads a post by RCMP, who are asking the community to work together to support friends who may be struggling and speak up and spread awareness about domestic abuse among teenagers.

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