By: Winnipeg Tribune Staff Writer
Winnipeg, April 26, 2024 - A routine traffic stop turned violent on Tuesday evening, April 23rd, when Selkirk RCMP officers encountered an aggressive passenger on Highway 9 in the RM of St. Andrews.
Around 9:20 PM, RCMP were alerted to a potentially impaired driver heading towards Highway 9. Officers quickly located and stopped the vehicle at the intersection with Capri Road. While the vehicle’s driver was found to be sober and cooperative, the situation escalated when the passenger became confrontational.
According to RCMP reports, the passenger, later identified as 42-year-old Alexander Chand, began to verbally abuse the officers on scene. The situation quickly deteriorated when Chand exited the vehicle, ignored commands to remain inside, and physically assaulted one of the officers by shoving and then punching him.
In response to the escalating threat, officers deployed a taser to subdue Chand. He was arrested after further resistance and now faces multiple charges including Assault on a Peace Officer Causing Bodily Harm, Assault on a Peace Officer, two counts of Resisting Arrest, three counts of Uttering Threats, and Mischief.Chand was released from custody.
One officer sustained minor injuries during the altercation but did not require medical attention. The incident highlights the risks law enforcement officers face and the unpredictability of routine traffic stops.