Cold Lake – Cold Lake RCMP say 72 long-barrel firearms and a crate of ammunition were discovered inside a vehicle after an early-morning traffic stop, with the driver allegedly prohibited from possessing firearms at the time.

The investigation began at approximately 3:50 a.m. on Aug. 19 when Cold Lake RCMP conducted a traffic stop on 50 Avenue.

Police seized the vehicle pending a search warrant, while the driver was issued a 24-hour Immediate Roadside Sanction.

A search warrant was approved and executed on the vehicle the following day.

RCMP say officers discovered 72 long-barrel firearms and a crate of ammunition inside.

According to police, the driver was the only person in the vehicle and was subject to a five-year firearms prohibition at the time. RCMP also said he has a history of firearms-related offences.

As a result of the investigation, Christopher Lawrence Starchuk, 36, of Cold Lake, has been charged with:

• Possession of firearms contrary to order;
• Possession of a firearm when knowing possession unauthorized;
• Resist/Obstruct Peace Officer; and
• Breach of recognizance.

Starchuk was brought before a justice of the peace and remanded into custody.

He is scheduled to appear before the Alberta Court of Justice in Cold Lake on Sept. 8, 2026.

The charges have not been proven in court.