Two people arrested after carjacking in Ponoka

PONOKA -- Two people were arrested on Tuesday night following a carjacking in Ponoka.

RCMP say an armed couple stole a Pontiac Vibe on 38th Avenue Close before being chased by police through Ponoka County and Montana First Nation. Corporal Guillaume Lamoureux says authorities were able to apprehend the suspects after they got stuck next to a frozen river.

"The white Pontiac Vibe got stuck on a berm near the river," said Cpl. Lamoureux. "The female suspect was arrested, and the male suspect fled on foot and was also arrested by the RCMP."

The male suspect was found sitting in a nearby tree and was taken by EMS to Ponoka General Hospital to be checked for exposure injuries.

On the evening of the incident, Mounties had advised of a heavy police presence along Battle River, east of Highway 2A and north of Township Road 440. Residents were advised to stay inside, lock their doors and avoid windows. They thank residents for their cooperation throughout the evening.

Preston Saddleback, a 35-years-old male resident of Ponoka, was charged with:

• Robbery with a firearm;
• Flight from a peace officer;
• Dangerous operation of a motor vehicle;
• Resist/obstruct a peace officer;
• Assault with a weapon;
• Mischief.

 Kayla Currie, a 41-years-old female resident of Ponoka, was charged with:

• Robbery with a firearm;
• Dangerous operation of a motor vehicle;
• Flight from a peace officer.