There were some tense moments in a northeast Edmonton neighbourhood Friday morning after a police tactical team surrounded a building and four people were taken into police custody.
The drama unfolded at an apartment building near 118 Ave. and 50 St. when the EPS tactical unit assisted the RCMP in surrounding the building.
"We were very concerned about the safety of the public as well as the officers involved," said Sgt Randy Rechner.
One female and three males were taken into police custody. They are believed to be linked to seven violent bank robberies in rural Alberta.
Two of the individuals placed under arrest are under the age of 18. The most recent robbery occurred at an ATB Financial in Gibbons on Tuesday. Police say three men took off with an undisclosed amount of cash. An employee was attacked and suffered minor injuries.
"To hear that she was actually hurt was really upsetting," said ATB Financial customer Alice Bradley.
Police say Franklin Gladue, 34, has not been charged at this point, but officers say charges are pending.
Charges are also pending against the two youths. The identity of the female is not being released at this time. Police don't know yet what role, if any, the woman had in the robberies.
Residents in Gibbons say they will now rest easier tonight knowing Gladue is in police custody.
"It will make it a little bit easier for us living and sleeping at night here," said one resident.
With files from Sean Amato
