An inmate serving time for second-degree murder at the Drumheller Institution, kidnapped, bound and assaulted a corrections officer during an escorted absence, but was quickly apprehended by RCMP.
On Tuesday, October 18, shortly after 6 p.m., the Drumheller Institution was notified that an inmate escaped from an escorted temporary absence while returning from Buck Lake, Alberta. Three Hills RCMP received a report that the officer has been taken hostage on Highway 587, west of Huxley.
According to a release from Three Hills RCMP, the inmate, being escorted by a lone female officer, was not handcuffed or secured. He feigned sickness while traveling on Highway 42, west of Highway 21, and overpowered the corrections officer by choking her with his hands and seatbelt. He bound the officer in the backseat of the minivan that was being used to transport the prisoner and let her out on Highway 587. Members of Olds RCMP located the minivan and took the suspect into custody without incident. The corrections officer was taken to the Three Hills Hospital, were she was treated for minor injuries and released.
Donald Fowler, 32, has been charged with escaping lawful custody, assaulting a peace officer, kidnapping, forcible confinement, theft and dangerous driving. He will appear in provincial court in Drumheller on October 21.
Fowler is a first time federal offender serving an indeterminate sentence for second degree murder and possession of a schedule I substance. His sentence commenced on July 2, 1997.
The Correctional Service of Canada says in a release it will review the circumstances surrounding the escape and will take necessary measures to address any safety and security issues stemming from this incident.
