Police responded to a high-risk incident in northeast Crescent Heights on May 10. (Photo Courtesy Tiffany Goodwein)

By Chris Brown

High-risk incident started with domestic assault, choking, says MHPS

May 11, 2022 | 3:50 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB – Medicine Hat police say it was a violent domestic assault that led to a standoff that last about four hours on Tuesday evening.

Late in the afternoon Medicine Hat Police Service responded to a call in the 2100 block of 10 Avenue NE for a “check on the well being.” Members of the patrol began an investigation.

“Through the investigation, they learned that a 38-year-old Medicine Hat man who’s known to us was responsible for committing several offences including domestic assault, assault by choking, suffocating, utter threats. As well he had numerous outstanding warrants for his arrest,” says Acting Insp. Rod Thompson.

Police began negotiations with the suspect around 6 p.m. and the tactical arrest control team and other units – including the tactical team, drone team and K9 unit – were deployed to contain the residence.

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After negotiations were unsuccessful police deployed three flashbangs and were able to get the male out of the house where he was taken into custody at about 10 p.m.

Thompson says the victim did suffer injuries in the attack but could not comment on the extent of them. There were no injuries to police, the accused or members of the public.

The suspect remains in custody hearing awaiting a bail hearing and the formal laying of charges. The investigation is ongoing.

Thompson adds the armoured vehicle was beneficial to keeping police and the public safe, and thanks members of the public for their patience and for keeping their distance as the situation unfolded.