The Medicine Hat Police Service (MHPS) Major Crime Section has charged at 54-year-old male in connection with the high risk incident that occurred on January 18, 2021.

The initial call was received at 9:30 AM reporting a male in distress, who was possibly a danger to himself and others, and that he may be armed with a weapon.

At approximately 12:00 PM members of the MHPS located the male in an isolated area, south of Smelter Avenue and Factor Street SE. The area was contained as officers attempted to make contact with the male. After several attempts to communicate with the male were unsuccessful, members of the MHPS Tactical Team and Crisis Negotiators were called to the scene.

At approximately 1:15 PM the male exited the structure and pointed a long barrel weapon at the police officers on scene. An armored rescue vehicle was utilized to provide protection for the officers who were then able to deploy a single-shot projectile launcher to subdue the male and safely take him into custody.

Resulting from this investigation Dale Melbourn has been charged with the following offenses; possession of a weapon x2, assault with a weapon x2, pointing a firearm x2 and breach of previous release conditions. Melbourn was held in custody with his next court appearance scheduled for January 21, 2021.

Media Contact:

S/Sgt. Darcy Brandt
Major Crimes Section
Medicine Hat Police Service
Ph: 403-529-8421