Athabasca RCMP say quick police work and drone technology led to the arrest of a known prolific offender following a break and enter and vehicle theft at an oil site near Perryville.

RCMP were called around 5 p.m. on January 9, 2026, after a theft was reported at an oilfield near Perryville, Alta. Officers responding to the scene quickly determined a known prolific offender, believed to have access to firearms, was involved.

Stolen Vehicle and Firearm Located

Police later located a stolen vehicle near Colinton, Alta. A firearm was visible inside the vehicle, which was confirmed to have been stolen out of Edmonton.

The driver fled the scene on foot into a densely wooded area, prompting RCMP to deploy additional resources.

Drone Used to Track Suspect

RCMP deployed their Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS), using onboard infrared technology to search the area. The drone located a male suspect attempting to conceal himself in the bush.

Drone operators guided officers directly to the suspect’s location, where he was arrested without incident.

Charges Laid

As a result of the investigation, Ryan Randall Scott Horseman, 42, of Sturgeon County, has been charged with:

• Obstruction

• Breach of probation

• Charges related to an outstanding warrant

Horseman was brought before a justice of the peace and remanded into custody. He is scheduled to appear in Alberta Court of Justice in Athabasca on January 26, 2026, at 10 a.m.

RCMP Highlight Technology and Collaboration

“This RCMP technology assisted in apprehending this prolific offender and reduced the probability of escape,” said Staff Sgt. Mark Hall, detachment commander of Athabasca RCMP. “Alberta RCMP remains committed to using technology responsibly and transparently, with a continued focus on public safety and community trust.”

Athabasca RCMP were assisted by multiple units, including the Real Time Operations Centre in Edmonton, Parkland RPAS, Edmonton Emergency Response Team, and Boyle RCMP.