On June 30, 2023, at 12:30 am, Portage la Prairie RCMP received a report of a 16-year-old female having been assaulted and then abducted, by an 18-year-old male, from a residence in Portage la Prairie. The suspect and victim are known to each other.
Information was received that the suspect arrived at the home, located on 10th Street NW in Portage la Prairie, and assaulted the victim before placing her in his vehicle. As the suspect was leaving, a threat was made that he was armed with a firearm which a witness had confirmed had been seen in the vehicle earlier in the evening.
Officers arrived at the residence and were advised that the suspect was believed to be heading to Winnipeg.
The suspect vehicle description was provided to neighbouring RCMP Detachments as well as the Winnipeg Police Service.
At approximately 1:00 am, Headingley RCMP observed the suspect vehicle driving eastbound on Highway 1, at it entered Headingley, where they attempted a traffic stop. The suspect failed to stop for police and a pursuit was initiated which continued on into the City of Winnipeg where the suspect vehicle was lost.
Patrols continued in the area however the suspect vehicle was not located.
The Winnipeg Police Service provided assistance with patrol units checking several addresses of interest which led to the victim being located unharmed at 5:00 am at an address on Strathcona Street.
RCMP have issued a Warrant of Arrest for 18-year-old Cayden Andrew Lathlin, of Winnipeg, who has been charged with Kidnapping with Firearm, Uttering Threats, Assault, Dangerous Operation of a Motor Vehicle and Flight from Police.
If you have any information on the whereabouts of Cayden Lathlin, you are asked to contact the Portage RCMP at 204-857-4445, call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477, or secure tip online at www.manitobacrimestoppers.com.
Portage la Prairie RCMP continue to investigate.