Suspect charged with attempted murder, unlawful confinement after shelter in place in County of Wetaskiwin

A 34-year-old man has been arrested by RCMP following an alleged shoot out and shelter in place in the County of Wetaskiwin that was issued on Dec. 30.

That day, Wetaskiwin RCMP received a report of an assault at a rural home on Township Road 441 in the county. Officers reported unsuccessful attempts to contact the suspect, leading to a containment of the residence; the Albert RCMP Emergency Response Team was sent to assist.

Police say they obtained a warrant and then entered the house, attempting to arrest the suspect. He allegedly shot at officers once they entered the home, prompting them to retreat.

De-escalation efforts occurred while a shelter in place was issued for the surrounding community, lifting on December 31.

RCMP reports the suspect eventually surrendered, was treated for minor injuries and was taken to a holding cell.

As a result of the investigation, Eric Dylan Dixon has been charged with:

Attempted murder with a firearm
Resist peace officer
Firearm offences (x4)
Assault
Forcible confinement
Uttering threats

Dixon was taken before a justice of the peace and remanded into custody with his next court date set for Jan. 9, 2025, at the Alberta Court of Justice in Wetaskiwin.

No officers were injured during the incident.