Man Charged After RCMP Find Explosive Device in Sherwood Park Traffic Stop
A 36-year-old man is facing numerous criminal charges after Royal Canadian Mounted Police officers discovered an improvised explosive device during a routine traffic stop in Sherwood Park earlier this week. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, April 7, 2026, prompted the evacuation of a nearby gas station and required the intervention of specialized explosives disposal units.
Traffic Stop Leads to Discovery of Weapons
At approximately 1:30 a.m., an officer from the Strathcona County RCMP was conducting proactive patrols in a parking lot located off Pembina Road and Broadmoor Boulevard. During this patrol, the officer ran the license plate of a Buick Verano and determined that it was not a match for the vehicle and was not attached to any registered motor vehicle, according to a police press release issued on Wednesday.
The officer subsequently pulled the vehicle over for further investigation. Upon approaching the car, the officer observed bear mace inside the vehicle and noted that the driver, a man, was attempting to conceal a knife down the side of the driver's seat. The man was immediately arrested at the scene.
Search Reveals Explosive Device and Drug Paraphernalia
Following the arrest, a thorough search of the vehicle was conducted. Police reported finding drug paraphernalia and, most alarmingly, an improvised explosive device (IED). Due to the presence of the explosive, the immediate area, including a gas station, had to be evacuated as a precautionary measure.
The Alberta RCMP explosives disposal unit (EDU) was called to the scene to assist. After testing the device, the EDU determined it was safe, noting that the contents were energetic but the battery was not connected, thereby reducing the immediate threat.
Charges and Court Appearance
The suspect has been identified as Anthony Timothy Walker, 36, of Strathcona County. He has been charged with a series of offenses, including:
- Three counts of possession of a weapon contrary to an order
- Two counts of possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose
- Possession of an explosive
- Failure to comply with a drug demand
- Impaired operation of a motor vehicle
- Possession for the purpose of trafficking
- Resisting a peace officer
Walker has been remanded into custody and is scheduled to appear in court on April 22, 2026, to face these charges. The RCMP emphasized the seriousness of the findings and the potential risks posed by such devices in public areas.
This case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to address public safety concerns through proactive policing and rapid response to hazardous situations.
