The RCMP says it has recovered over $500,000 in stolen hydroelectric equipment after a Port Coquitlam business was burglarized last week.
Police received a report of the break and enter, which they say occurred overnight on August 14 at around 7:30 a.m.
A few hours later, Coquitlam RCMP received a report of a stolen van from a different business in PoCo. Police were provided with GPS coordinates for the stolen vehicle, which showed the van had been driven to Mission.
Officers found the van driving on a Forest Service Road in Mission, and discovered it had since been painted grey.
An attempt to stop the van led to the driver allegedly ramming an unoccupied Mission RCMP SUV. Police say the van then lost one of its tires and was driven on a rim for a short distance.
Police say they were then able to stop the van and apprehend both the driver and a passenger. Brian McDonald remains in police custody awaiting a court appearance, and a woman was released on conditions.
McDonald has been charged with possession of stolen property, dangerous operation of a vehicle, break and enter, and flight from a peace officer.
No serious injuries were reported.
Mounties say the investigation is ongoing.
Anyone with any information about the incident is asked to call the Coquitlam RCMP at 604-945-1550 and quote file number 2024-21269.