Winnipeg, Manitoba – A traffic stop in Winnipeg’s Maples neighborhood allegedly led to the seizure of a sawed-off rifle and multiple weapons Thursday, with one man taken into custody following an investigation into an earlier armed encounter involving two youths.
According to the Winnipeg Police Service, the incident began just before 1:30 p.m. Thursday when officers were called to investigate an alleged confrontation near Jefferson Avenue and Maevista Place. Police said a 16-year-old and a 17-year-old male were walking on the sidewalk when a Chevrolet Equinox approached. The front passenger allegedly rolled down a window and pointed a sawed-off rifle at the youths before the vehicle fled the area. No injuries were reported.
Authorities said the suspect vehicle was located just after 2 p.m. in the 400 block of Adsum Drive, where officers conducted a traffic stop near Jefferson Avenue. A male driver was arrested at the scene. During a search of the vehicle, officers allegedly recovered several weapons, including a sawed-off Remington rifle with an obliterated serial number, a .177 caliber air pistol revolver, a flintlock cap gun, and a machete.
Police identified the suspect as 18-year-old Frederick Basbas Cruz of Winnipeg. He has been charged with multiple offenses, including unauthorized possession of a firearm, unauthorized possession of a firearm in a motor vehicle, pointing a firearm, possession of a firearm knowing the serial number has allegedly been tampered with, and possession of a weapon.
The Major Crimes Unit has assumed the investigation. Cruz remains in custody as the case proceeds through the court system.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Threads for more relevant new stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!
