Bonnyville RCMP have identified 62-year-old David Merko as the man accused of stealing a trackhoe and using it to destroy five RCMP vehicles at the local detachment on May 3rd. Police say he also dumped boulders in front of the prisoner bay, trying to block officers from responding to calls. Merko fled on foot but was tracked down and arrested with help from a police dog and multiple RCMP units.Â
He’s now facing 13 charges, including mischief, dangerous driving, and uttering threats—linked to an earlier call where he allegedly threatened to kill officers. RCMP say no drugs or alcohol were involved, and the damage is estimated at $450,000. Merko remains in custody and is due in court May 6th.Â
