A 22-year-old woman from Lethbridge faces numerous charges in connection with Tuesday afternoon’s alleged getaway attempt that left an officer injured and several vehicles, including marked police units, damaged.

According to the Lethbridge Police Service, officers responded to a parking lot outside the Smitty’s restaurant in the 2000 block of Mayor Magrath Drive South after a suspect was seen parked in a Pontiac Sunfire. The woman had been identified as the suspect in connection with a number of property offences.

An officer parked his unit behind the suspect vehicle and approached the car's door. As the LPS member opened the door of the suspect car, the driver allegedly placed the car in reverse and crashed into both the officer and the police unit.

The driver of the suspect vehicle continued through the parking lot, striking three additional police vehicles as well as a civilian’s vehicle. After leaving the lot, the Pontiac Sunfire was involved in a three-vehicle collision on Mayor Magrath Drive.

The suspect, 22-year-old Alyssa Chantel Krushel of Lethbridge, suffered minor injuries and the crash and was transported to hospital by ambulance. Krushel was arrested and remains in police custody.

The member of the LPS who was struck by the suspect vehicle received medical treatment in hospital and was subsequently released.

A search of the suspect vehicle resulted in the seizure of stolen property including merchandise from a salon and identification. Investigators have determined the Pontiac Sunfire and its licence plate were stolen.

In connection with the events of Tuesday afternoon, Krushel faces charges including:

  • Assault peace officer with weapon
  • Resist a peace officer
  • Flight from peace officer
  • Dangerous driving
  • Fail to remain at the scene of an accident
  • Possession of stolen property under $5,000 (three counts)
  • Breach of recognizance
  • Theft under $5,000
  • Possession of identity documents

Krushel is scheduled to appear in court on Friday. The investigation into the matter continues and additional charges are expected.