RCMP are searching for a 39-year-old man they say is armed and has abducted a 20-year-old woman from Pimicikamak Cree Nation.
Just after 11:00 AM today, an alert went out to Manitobans on their mobile phones, as RCMP used the Alert Ready system for Pimicikamak Cree Nation and surrounding areas to warn people officers were searching for 39-year-old Joshua Paupanekis.
According to a media release, Cross Lake RCMP responded to a report of an aggravated assault at a residence on Pimicikamak Cree Nation at about 5:45 AM. Police allege Paupanekis entered a home and struck a 24-year-old resident with a hammer.
Police said the suspect, who they believe is also armed with a knife, then abducted a 20-year-old woman from the residence. Joshua Paupanekis was last seen fleeing on foot with the victim.
There is a large-scale search effort with multiple police units underway in the community to locate the victim, 20-year-old Raeanne Thomas. The RCMP believes she is in immediate danger.
Anyone with information on the whereabouts of 39-year-old Joshua Paupanekis, who we request the public to not approach as he is considered armed and dangerous, and/or 20-year-old Raeanne Thomas, is asked to contact the Cross Lake RCMP Detachment at 204-676-2600.
Cross Lake RCMP, along with Police Dog Services, continue to investigate.
