In August of 2022, the Winnipeg Police Service learned of several firearms stored within a storage locker in the 800 block of Waverley Street.
The Property Crime Unit assumed the investigation and identified a suspect male with access to the storage unit.
Through their investigation, investigators also learned the following:
- Between March 31, 2022, and April 1, 2022, a commercial property in the 700 block of Tache Avenue was broken into, and numerous tools were stolen from within.
- Between July 4, 2022, and July 29, 2022, a commercial property in the 500 block of De la Seigneurie was broken into, and numerous tools were stolen from within.
On August 15, 2022, investigators executed a search warrant at the storage locker and seized the following items:
- Winchester ’94 30/30 break-action rifle
- Husqvarna 30/06 bolt-action rifle
- Parker Hale 7mm bolt-action rifle
- Loaded Crossman Bushmaster BB rifle (modified to hold rifle ammunition)
- Hilti Rotating Laser
- Dewalt 30-amp Battery Charger
- Hilti Concrete Drill
- Weiser Deadbolt Control Smart Keys (box of 12)
The suspect was not located at the time of the search warrant, and the provincial court issued a warrant for his arrest.
On September 27, 2022, at approximately 7:00 p.m., investigators attended the Milner Ridge Correctional Facility in Beausejour (where the suspect was being lodged on an unrelated matter) and placed him under arrest.
Erik Petersen, 30, of Winnipeg, has been charged with the following offences:
- Possession of a Firearm Knowing its Possession is Unauthorized x 3
- Possession of a Weapon
- Fail to Comply with Condition of Release Order x 8
- Possession of Firearm, Restricted/Prohibited Weapon or Ammunition Contrary to Regulations x 4
- Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Under $5,000 x 4
He remains in custody.