POLICE – Cabbie threatened, taxi stolen, suspect flees, arrested after collisions

A suspect is in custody facing multiple charges after a cab driver was threatened and his taxi stolen on Fortune Drive this afternoon (Aug. 5, 2022).

At 2:47 p.m., Kamloops RCMP received a report of a robbery with a weapon in connection with the incident. Police immediately responded and located the sole suspect in the cab in the area. They attempted to stop the vehicle but the thief drove off at a high rate of speed.

The stolen taxi was then involved in collisions with two other vehicles, and the suspect fled the area on foot.  A coordinated response involving a police dog service team responded, quickly locating and arresting the suspect without further incident.

The suspect is being held in custody for a bail hearing, with police recommending charges of robbery, flight from police, dangerous driving and failing to remain at the scene of a collision.

“This is was a very brazen and dangerous situation in a highly populated area of the city putting the public at extreme risk,” said Insp. Jeff Pelley.

“Through the immediate and strategic response of our front line members and Police Dog Services, this offender was successfully arrested and there were no injuries to the public.”

Police are asking anyone with information or video of the incident to contact police at (250) 828-3000.