A potentially dangerous situation for Red Deer runners and cyclists was reported to police on Friday morning.
Red Deer RCMP were contacted just after 9 a.m. after pedestrians reportedly found wire strung across a path at about head height in a trail near Taylor Bridge.
“At this time, there’s not too much to add. It doesn’t appear to be a prolific thing – it appears to be a one-off incident at this time,” said RCMP Const. Patrick Lambert.
Upon police arrival, pedestrians had already taken down the wire for safety reasons.
“We want to encourage people to live healthy and active lifestyles. Whenever public safety and the perception of safety is challenged, that does become a concern,” Lambert said.
“I do advocate to contact the police when they see things of a unique or bizarre nature sticking out. We don’t want these kinds of things to continue. We applaud the folks who saw it and not only take it down, but also notify the police.”
The Central Alberta Bicycle Club’s board of directors in a statement to The Advocate expressed “anger and frustration” towards this incident.
“Some cyclists and bikers choose paths as a safe option when they don’t feel like some motorists are less willing share the roads,” the statement said.
“It is disheartening to know that someone is attempting to hurt our community members. Paths are pivotal for many seeking a healthy lifestyle and we hope this activity stops so we can confidently and safely enjoy Red Deer’s outdoor amenities.”
The club urged caution for people using the trail system in a social media post at about 11:20 a.m. on Friday morning.
John Johnston, president of the Red Deer Association for Bicycle Community, said he was shocked upon hearing a wire was strung across a path within the city’s trail system.
“It’s just terrifying. I don’t understand why anybody would want to be that malicious,” Johnston said.
“It could be a life-altering event if you hit something like that (while cycling), especially at neck level.”
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