Man charged after collision with RCMP officer in Leduc

Alberta RCMP say a Mountie was taken to hospital after being injured in a collision on Monday morning.

Mounties say officers were patrolling near 50 Avenue in Leduc when he was hit from behind by a pickup truck. Both vehicles entered the ditch, and the suspect tried to flee.

The officer was injured in the collision, but was able to chase the suspect and take him into custody. Following this, the officer was taken to hospital and has since been released.

An investigation after the fact, determined that the suspect accelerated towards and intentionally rammed the officer.

Since, 34-year-old Mitchell Donald Culhane has been charged with aggravated assault on a peace officer, dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, failing to stop at an accident causing bodily harm, and resisting arrest. He is expected to appear in court on Dec. 11.

“Since 2023, instances of assault on police with a weapon or causing bodily harm has increased by 23 per cent in the province”, says Inspector Kiel Samotej Detachment Commander Leduc RCMP, “Although violence against police is rising, our officers are trained, equipped, and prepared to respond decisively. The resilience shown by our officers ensures we can continue serving the public with confidence.”