A 35-year-old Moncton man is in custody after trying to flee Fredericton police during a traffic stop.
The force says a patrol officer attempted to stop a U-Haul truck at the corner of Priestman and Smythe Street on April 20 in connection with an ongoing investigation. The driver sped away, going through multiple red lights.
Officers did not pursue the truck in a chase in the interest of public safety.
Police say the driver struck another vehicle and abandoned the truck in a ditch near Route 8 and College Hill Road. Two adults fled into a wooded area on Poet’s Hill. A woman was soon taken into custody and later released unconditionally.
The truck was seized as part of the current investigation.
Shortly after 3 p.m. on April 21, police responded to reports that the man was seen in the area of Two Nations Crossing. Officers found him in a wooded area near the SmartCentres Shopping Mall.
The force also seized an imitation handgun during the arrest.
Police say 35-year-old John Wayne Roger Horsman appeared before a judge via tele-remand on April 22.
He faces several charges, including flight from police, obstruction, failure to stop after an accident, dangerous operation of a conveyance and suspended driving. Police say that more charges are expected.
Horsman was held in custody and is scheduled to make his next court appearance on April 25 at 1:30 p.m.