RCMP are searching for a man accused of assaulting three women, using bear spray and stealing a vehicle during a series of incidents in Little Saskatchewan First Nation and Ashern early June 23.
James Maytwayashing of Little Saskatchewan First Nation
Gypsumville RCMP received a report of an assault at approximately 12:15 a.m. inside a residence in Little Saskatchewan First Nation.
Police said a 33-year-old woman was allegedly assaulted by a man known to her before leaving the residence to seek help from family members.
A 31-year-old female relative then approached the suspect and was allegedly assaulted and bear sprayed.
According to RCMP, a vehicle carrying two women arrived at the property shortly afterward. Police allege the suspect, who was armed with a handgun, forced the driver from the vehicle, took the keys and fled at a high rate of speed with the 30-year-old passenger still inside.
Additional officers from surrounding detachments were called in and began searching for the vehicle along Highway 6.
RCMP located the vehicle a short time later in Ashern and were able to speak with the passenger. She told officers that after arriving at a residence in Ashern, the suspect exited the vehicle and she drove away.
Members of the Gypsumville and Ashern RCMP detachments, along with the Manitoba RCMP Emergency Response Team and Police Dog Services, conducted an extensive search in Ashern but were unable to locate the suspect.
All three women were assessed by emergency medical services but declined transportation to hospital.
RCMP have issued a warrant for the arrest of 31-year-old James Maytwayashing of Little Saskatchewan First Nation.
Police say Maytwayashing may be armed and should not be approached. Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to call 911 or contact the Gypsumville RCMP detachment. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers.
