A 12-year-old youth in Sylvan Lake, whose face is blurred in this photo taken alongside members of town council, was recognized recently for an act of bravery. (Town of Sylvan Lake)

By Josh Hall | @Vancan19

"extremely impressive"

Sylvan Lake youth recognized for act of bravery

Feb 28, 2024 | 5:10 PM

A young man is the talk of the town in Sylvan Lake after his recent act of bravery.

The 12-year-old, whom rdnewsNOW has agreed to not name, was in the back of a vehicle, alone, just after noon on Jan. 26, 2024.

While the youth’s parent went into a local restaurant to pick up food, a man attempted to steal the vehicle, not realizing, however, that someone was still inside.

That’s when the young man let his instincts guide him, says Cpl. Sean Sexsmith of Sylvan Lake RCMP.

“He confronted the person in a non-violent manner, and when the vehicle came to a stop, the young person took the keys out of the ignition, and the suspect fled on foot,” says Sexsmith.

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“From a public and police safety standpoint, stolen vehicles can be high-risk and high-stress for anyone involved. Police have specific training and experience in staying calm and retaining intricate details, while a 12-year-old does not. But in this instance, the youth stayed calm and provided an extremely detailed description of the suspect.”

Sexsmith says the act was brave and extremely impressive, especially under such high stress.

An arrest was made not long after the incident.

The accused, a 37-year-old man, was supposed to appear in a Red Deer courtroom on Feb. 9, but failed to appear and a warrant was issued for his arrest. RCMP confirm he was arrested again with a court date on Feb. 26, but again failed to show. A warrant is again out for his arrest.

“No one should ever have to feel scared or go through such a terrible situation, especially a young person,” says Mayor Megan Hanson. “When I heard about the brave actions he took and how quickly he responded to this difficult situation, I knew his courage deserved recognition. He showed true bravery, and we’re incredibly proud to have such a strong and fearless young man like him here in Sylvan Lake.”

The youth was recognized at a recent meeting of Sylvan Lake town council, where he received the Commander’s Commendation for bravery from Sexsmith, as well as a Sylvan Lake RCMP challenge coin, and a gift from the Town.

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