Portage la Prairie RCMP are currently looking for an 18-year-old male suspect who is wanted in connection to an abduction incident that occurred in the community.
On June 30, 2023, at 12:30am, Portage la Prairie RCMP received a report of a 16-year-old female having been assaulted and then abducted by an 18-year-old male from a residence located in the community.
Police say that the suspect and victim are known to each other.
Information was received that the suspect arrived at the home, located on 10th Street NW in Portage la Prairie, and assaulted the victim before placing her in his vehicle. As the suspect was leaving, a threat was made that he was armed with a firearm. RCMP say that a witness had confirmed seeing a firearm in the vehicle earlier that evening.
Officers arrived at the residence and were advised that the suspect was believed to be heading to Winnipeg. The suspect vehicle description was provided to neighbouring RCMP Detachments as well as the Winnipeg Police Service.
At approximately 1am, Headingley RCMP observed the suspect vehicle driving eastbound on Highway 1. As the vehicle entered Headingley, a traffic stop was attempted, but the suspect failed to stop for police and a pursuit was initiated. The chase continued on into the City of Winnipeg where the suspect vehicle was lost.
Patrols continued in the area however the suspect vehicle was not located. Winnipeg Police Service provided assistance with patrol units checking several addresses of interest which led to the victim being located at an address on Strathcona Street.
RCMP have issued a Warrant of Arrest for 18-year-old Cayden Andrew Lathlin of Winnipeg. Lathlin has been charged with kidnapping with a firearm, uttering threats, assault, dangerous operation of a motor vehicle and flight from police.
If you have any information regarding the whereabouts of Cayden Lathlin, you are asked to contact the Portage RCMP at204-857-4445 or call CrimeStoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477. You can also submit a secure tip online at manitobacrimestoppers.com.
