Photo: Smoky Lake RCMP received reports of a fire in Bellis that ultimately destroyed a local church. Submitted

Smoky Lake, Alta. – On Sept. 21, 2025, Smoky Lake RCMP received calls regarding one attempted and one successful vehicle theft. The suspects left the area together in two separate vehicles. RCMP members responded, located the vehicles, that were driving erratically, and attempted a traffic stop. The vehicles fled and a Tire Deflation Device was deployed on the suspect vehicle. The vehicle steered towards a police car and rammed it, with a suspect deploying bear mace in an attempt to escape. The stolen vehicle fled the scene while the suspect vehicle eventually stopped, with suspects fleeing on foot. Alberta RCMP Police Dog Services and Remote Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) members were deployed, assisting in locating and arresting three suspects, one of which was a youth.

Smoky Lake RCMP then started receiving reports of a fire in Bellis that ultimately destroyed a local church. According to Firestorm, who attended the scene, an accelerant was likely used. Upon further investigation, items found in the suspect vehicle led officers to link the church fire to the individuals involved in the vehicle theft. RCMP believes there is at least one more suspect that has yet to be identified or arrested.

As a result of the investigation, Sandy Dawn Marie White (23) and Lazare Favel (26), both Saddle Lake First Nations, Alta., residents, were arrested and charged with:

• Flight from Police

• Dangerous operation of motor vehicle;

• Mischief under $5000;

• Assault police with weapon;

• Break and enter;

• Arson;

• Possession of break-in tools;

• Possession of property obtained by crime under $5000; and

• Mischief to cultural property.

Favel and White were brought before a justice of the peace. Favel was remanded into custody and is to appear before the Alberta Court of Justice in Fort Saskatchewan on Sept. 25, 2025, while White was released on conditions to appear before the same court on Oct. 23, 2025.

“We are saddened to see a nearly century-old cultural building destroyed in such a manner” said Sgt. Anita Doktor, Detachment Commander of the Smoky Lake RCMP. “We believe in preserving our history, no matter our beliefs, and want to highlight the fact that this is not something that should take place within our communities. We want to thank the surrounding detachments, as well as Alberta RCMP PDS, RPAS and FIS members for assisting in this investigation.”

Smoky Lake RCMP is currently looking for information regarding the outstanding suspect or suspects. Anyone with information is asked to please contact the Smoky Lake RCMP, or their local police. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the "P3 Tips" app available through the Apple App or Google Play store. To report crime online, or for access to RCMP news and information, download the Alberta RCMP app through Apple or Google Play. To contact RCMP non-emergency line within any Alberta RCMP jurisdiction call 310-RCMP(7267).

Photos: Suspects car after arrest and stolen property displayed on the suspects car. Submitted