The Kamloops detachment of the RCMP is seeking the public’s assistance in tracking the whereabouts of a man who swam up the North Thompson River after an ATM at a pub was robbed.
The robbery occurred at around 3:30 a.m., after which the suspects fled the scene in what police later determined to be a stolen truck, the release says. Police say they have arrested one suspect and located the ATM and truck, but the cash remains missing.
“An RCMP police dog handler located two males matching the suspects on Westsyde Road and tracked them to the north Thompson River, where both entered,” Staff Sergeant Janelle Shoihet said, adding that one of the two males was arrested shortly after. “However a second suspect swam across the river and remains outstanding.”
Police described the missing suspect as a Caucasian, balding, male with a beard and full sleeve tattoos on his right arm and shoulder. He was last seen wearing a pair of blue jeans.
Police said they were unable to locate the suspect despite an extensive search of the surrounding area conducted with the assistance of Kamloops Fire and Rescue.
“We are releasing a photo of the suspect seen in the river and asking anyone who lives in the area east of the north Thompson River to keep their eyes out for the suspect, who will undoubtedly still be wet and cold. If you see him immediately call police,” the release says.
“Even on our hottest days, the cold water in the river can be dangerous. Cold shock from a quick dip to cool off can affect your breathing and heart rate, increasing the risk of drowning,” it warns.
Westsyde Road runs directly parallel to the west bank of the North Thompson River.
Police across the country have reported sporadic break-and-enter incidents involving ATMs, often resulting in significant property damage and losses.
