An officer from Southwest Division responded to a call of a male walking erratically on the shoulder of Anthony Henday Drive, south of 87 Avenue, at approximately 9:50 p.m. The police vehicle approached the pedestrian and when an officer attempted to speak with the male, the man sprayed the officer with what is believed to be bear spray and a round was subsequently discharged by police.
The man fled southbound to a wooded area. Southwest Division officers, Canine Unit, Tactical Unit and Air 1 located the male at approximately 10:30 p.m. – the male had climbed approximately 10 m (30 ft) up a tree.
After four hours of negotiation, the man surrendered. In addition to the bear spray, officers also located a replica firearm in his possession. The man did not sustain injury during the incident.
Frederick Andrews, 27, is charged with assault peace officer with a weapon, possession of a weapon and breach of recognizance. The suspect also had fourteen outstanding warrants for aggravated assault, assault, possession of a weapon and several breaches.
The officer sustained non-life threatening injuries. The incident is still under investigation by the Edmonton Police Service.