High River RCMP investigate armed robbery; police service dog injured during tracking

High River, Alta. — RCMP in High River are investigating an armed robbery at a local business after a masked suspect entered the store with a firearm, stole cash from the register, and fled on a bicycle.

The incident happened June 16, 2026, at about 10:20 p.m., according to a police media release. Officers responded quickly and set up a containment area as nearby resources were called in to assist.

Support was brought in from Okotoks RCMP, along with the Emergency Response Team and Police Dog Services as officers worked to track a possible suspect.

During the search, a police service dog with Royal Canadian Mounted Police Police Dog Services was seriously injured. The dog, identified as Paskal, was working alongside his handler, Cpl. Paul Cook, when the injury occurred. Cook immediately recognized the dog was hurt and rushed him to a Calgary veterinary clinic for emergency treatment.

RCMP say Paskal is a four-year-old German Shepherd who was born Sept. 5, 2022, at the RCMP Police Dog Services training facility in Innisfail. He began working with Cpl. Cook in the fall of 2023.

Police say the dog remains an important part of the RCMP team and plays a key role in high-risk searches and suspect tracking.

“Police dogs are indispensable members of our policing teams. Their exceptional abilities help keep communities safe, assist officers in high-risk situations, and play a critical role in operational success,” the RCMP said in its release.

Police have not released details on any suspects or arrests.

The investigation into the armed robbery is ongoing.

Anyone with information is asked to contact High River RCMP at 403-652-2357 or local police. Anonymous tips can also be provided through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or online at www.P3Tips.com.