The Keswick RCMP is seeking the public's help identifying a man following an assault with a weapon and two break, enter and thefts in Hanwell, N.B.
On November 18, 2024, at approximately 10:50 p.m., members of the Keswick RCMP detachment responded to a report of a break, enter and theft in progress at a business on Timothy Avenue, in Hanwell.
As police arrived near the scene, they were made aware of a second break, enter and theft in progress in the immediate area, where a man was located by police loading stolen property into a U-Haul.
The man jumped in the driver's seat of the U-Haul and attempted to strike the police cruiser head-on, but struck the front passenger side before fleeing the scene. The suspect had also attempted to strike the responding security guard's vehicle when they responded to the first break, enter and theft.
The U-Haul was followed southbound on Highway 3, where police attempted to deploy a tire deflating device. The driver of the U-Haul deliberately swerved towards the police officer while he was standing roadside, forcing the officer to jump in the ditch to avoid being struck. The police officer sustained minor injuries at the time of the incident.
Through their investigation, it was also learned the same man stole fuel from a business in Ripples at approximately 10:13 a.m. the same day.
Police are now releasing video surveillance footage photos of the suspect and the U-Haul. The U-Haul is described as being 15 feet long, has possible damage to the front of the truck, and Arizona licence plate AG66559.
The suspect is believed to be dangerous and should not be approached by members of the public. If you see him, call 911 immediately.
If you were in the Ripples area the morning of November 18 or in the Hanwell area that evening, and witnessed suspicious activity, if you recognize the individual or truck, or if you have information that may help further the investigation, please contact the Keswick RCMP at 506-357-4300. Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), by downloading the secure P3 Mobile App, or by Secure Web Tips at www.crimenb.ca.
The investigation is ongoing.