Stettler RCMP are investigating an attempted armed robbery and a separate break-in and theft at the Byemoor Hotel and Bar over the weekend.
Byemoor is a hamlet located 70 km southwest of Stettler.
The attempted armed robbery occurred at approximately 2 p.m. on Friday when the owner of the hotel and a customer were approached by two men, dressed in overalls and wearing balaclavas. One of the robbers brandished a firearm and the pair attempted to steal money from the cash machine. When the men were unsuccessful at breaking open the cash machine and failed to remove the unit from the building, they fled in what is believed to be a white Ford pick-up truck. No one was injured.
The second incident took place sometime overnight between Saturday and early morning hours of Sunday.
An unknown number of suspects broke into the hotel’s bar and stole money from a cash machine and a video lottery terminal. A cigarette dispenser, bottles of liquor and some confectionery items were also taken. There is no estimate of the damage to the building and the machines at this time.
Police are investigating whether the two crimes are connected. The Red Deer RCMP Forensic Identification Section is assisting Stettler RCMP in both matters, which are still under investigation.
Anyone with information that could help solve these crimes is asked to contact Stettler RCMP at 403-742-3382, submit tips anonymously by calling Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-8477, or online at tipsubmit.com.