Winnipeg, MB – A late-night break-in at a church on Ellice Avenue led to the arrest of a 44-year-old man Saturday, after Winnipeg police say a K9 unit tracked him several blocks away from the scene.
According to the Winnipeg Police Service, officers responded around 10:30 p.m. to a commercial alarm at a church in the 1000 block of Ellice Avenue. When officers arrived, they allegedly found a broken basement window and a damaged donation box inside the building. Police say the suspect had already fled on foot before they arrived.
Multiple units, including General Patrol officers, the Air1 helicopter, and a member of the Canine Unit, searched the surrounding area. Police say the K9 team ultimately tracked the suspect—identified as Nicholas Richard Grandbois, 44—to the 900 block of Dominion Street at approximately 11:30 p.m. He was allegedly arrested without incident.
According to police, Grandbois was found with an undisclosed amount of money, which officers seized as evidence. Police believe the cash is tied to the reported church theft.
Grandbois is charged with Break Enter & Theft – Place and was also arrested on an outstanding warrant for Fail to Attend Court. Winnipeg police say he remains in custody awaiting disposition.
Residents in the area told police they noticed heavy patrol presence Saturday night as the search unfolded. Authorities have not released the estimated cost of damages to the building or donation box.
Police did not report any injuries connected to the incident. The investigation remains ongoing.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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