Copper Theft Investigation Leads to Arrest, Second Suspect Sought
A Fort McMurray man is facing charges in connection with the theft of copper tubing valued at more than $50,000, while police continue their search for a second suspect.
The investigation began on January 13, when Wood Buffalo RCMP responded to a report of stolen copper tubing from a local business in the Gregoire area. Surveillance footage from the night before showed two suspects wearing balaclavas entering the business and leaving with the stolen materials. They drove away in a blue Chevrolet Cruze.
The investigation led RCMP to execute search warrants on January 17 at two locations associated with the theft: one on Arabian Drive in the Prairie Creek area and another on Demers Drive Downtown. Officers recovered the stolen copper tubing and arrested one suspect without incident.
John Carr, 28, of Fort McMurray, is facing charges of theft over $5,000 and possession of break-in instruments. Carr has been released from custody and is scheduled to appear in the Alberta Court of Justice in Fort McMurray on February 12, 2025.
Wood Buffalo RCMP are still working to identify the second suspect involved in the theft.
Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to contact Wood Buffalo RCMP at (780) 788-4040. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com, or via the “P3 Tips” app available on Apple and Android devices.