On March 22, 2026, members of the Medicine Hat Police Service Patrol Section responded to a report of an assault in the Riverside area. When officers arrived, they learned that the suspect had already fled the scene. One officer soon found the suspect nearby and began a foot chase. To escape arrest, the suspect jumped into the South Saskatchewan River. Concerned for the suspect's safety and to carry out the arrest, the officer entered the water and was able to bring the suspect safely back to shore.

The suspect, a 50-year-old man from Medicine Hat, has been charged with assault, assault by choking, resisting arrest, and unlawful confinement. He remains in custody and is scheduled to appear in court on March 26, 2026.

Media Contact:

Patrol S/Sgt.
Patrol Section
Medicine Hat Police Service
Ph: 403-529-8461