REGINA – A Medicine Hat man is facing numerous charges following a high-speed police pursuit that started on Highway 11 and into Regina’s streets.
At approximately 9 p.m. on Oct. 28, the RCMP alerted the Regina Police Service’s Aerial Support Unit (ASU) that a stolen vehicle was speeding near Lumsden and headed towards Regina. The suspect, later identified as 37-year-old Randy Yaholnitsky, refused to stop for RCMP and accelerated southbound on Highway 11, reportedly reaching speeds up to 170 km/h.
RCMP officers didn’t pursue the vehicle, and instead relied on RPS ASU surveillance from the sky. Yaholnitsky entered Regina city limits, continuing to drive recklessly – running red lights, speeding over 100 km/h, and driving the wrong way on Albert Street North. A second attempt by Regina police to stop the vehicle was also evaded.
Police say Yaholnitsky headed toward the city’s south end, narrowly avoiding multiple collisions. RPS patrol units, including the Tactical Support Team, deployed tire deflation devices in an effort to stop the vehicle. Though the first device damaged tires, the suspect continued to flee at reduced speeds. After a second deployment, the vehicle began shedding parts as it limped through south central Regina.
At about 10:36 p.m., the vehicle came to a stop near College Avenue and Toronto Street. Police say Yaholnitsky attempted to flee on foot but was apprehended after a Police Service Dog was deployed, resulting in injuries consistent with a dog bite. He was taken into custody and later treated in hospital.
Yaholnitsky faces charges of dangerous driving, flight from a peace officer, possession of property obtained by crime valued over $5,000, theft under $5,000, resisting arrest, and failing to comply with conditions of a release order.
Yaholnitsky made his first appearance on these charges in Regina Court on Oct. 29.
sparks@sasktoday.ca
