Red Deer Observer

07/23/2026

A 33-year-old Red Deer man is facing multiple charges after RCMP say a dealership test drive turned into an alleged armed vehicle theft earlier this week.

According to police, officers responded to a 911 call at approximately 11:26 a.m. on July 21 after receiving reports that a man had displayed a firearm to a dealership employee near the end of a test drive. The employee exited the vehicle, and the suspect allegedly drove away at a high rate of speed.

RCMP launched a coordinated response involving multiple specialized units, including the Real Time Operations Centre, Crime Reduction Team, Drone as First Responder, Police Dog Services, Traffic Services, and assistance from Ponoka and Maskwacis RCMP. Police say the stolen vehicle reached speeds of up to 165 km/h before it was safely recovered. No injuries were reported.

Nathaniel Spidell, 33, of Red Deer, has been charged with:

* Robbery using a firearm or imitation firearm
* Possession of identity documents
* Possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose

RCMP say additional charges under Alberta’s Traffic Safety Act are expected. Following a judicial interim release hearing, Spidell was remanded into custody and appeared in Alberta Court of Justice in Red Deer on July 22.

07/23/2026

07/23/2026

Fascinating tool to find out property assessment values throughout the City of Red Deer (including easy to navigate map)

You can use the Assessed Value map in Web Map to compare the assessed value of your property with others in your neighbourhood or throughout the city.

07/23/2026

"As Alberta continues to experience warmer temperatures and an increased risk of wildfire, Red Deer Emergency Services (RDES) Fire Prevention Bureau is encouraging residents to take simple steps to help protect their homes and neighbourhoods through the FireSmart program..."

News Release - Jul 23, 2026 - As Alberta continues to experience warmer temperatures and an increased risk of wildfire, Red Deer Emergency Services (RDES) Fire Prevention Bureau is encouraging residents to take simple steps to help protect their homes and neighbourhoods through the FireSmart program...

07/23/2026

Red Deer County residents may notice increased aircraft activity during the Red Deer Regional Airshow this weekend ✈

Planned flyovers may include the Canadian Forces Snowbirds, CF-18 Hornet Tactical Demonstration, Canadian Armed Forces SkyHawks, and other aircraft. Some flyovers may occur at altitudes as low as 500 feet, in accordance with all applicable regulations.

Red Deer County does not have exact flyover times, but residents are advised that aircraft activity may occur this weekend (July 24 - 26)

To learn more about the Red Deer Regional Airshow, visit: reddeerregionalairshow.com

Photo credit: Red Deer Regional Airshow

07/23/2026

DOWNTOWN DISCUSSION: Cleanliness and Civic Pride

A clean downtown creates a welcoming environment for residents, businesses, and visitors. Community pride exists, but maintaining it is an ongoing challenge. Continued investment in cleanliness, landscaping, graffiti removal, loitering management, and public maintenance can make a noticeable difference.

Please keep your comments polite and constructive so they remain visible and contribute to a productive discussion. Thank you.

Note: The "Today" image is intended to reflect public perception and community attitudes. It is a symbolic illustration and is not an actual depiction of downtown The City of Red Deer . Downtown Neighbourhood Alliance - Red Deer

Discussion question: Would a cleaner downtown encourage you to visit more often?

07/23/2026

Alberta- this is good news. It removes interprovincial trade barriers that should never have existed to begin with.

From Alberta to Canada: Joint statement

Premier Danielle Smith and Minister of Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction Dale Nally issued the following statement on the direct-to-consumer alcohol sales agreement:

https://www.alberta.ca/release.cfm?xID=965344284F3BD-D322-CF8B-E3B9649C0C649719

07/23/2026

Special mail in ballot applications are now being considered for the October 19th referendum vote.

For all of you who complained because they had to stand in line (to exercise your civic duty) to vote in the municipal election, this is your opportunity to cast your vote from your kitchen table (so to speak). Now you have no excuse not to vote.

To apply use the link below.

https://specialballot.elections.ab.ca/

You may also go to the Elections Alberta website directly to find this information.

voter registration election elector register

07/23/2026

Currently.

It's going to be another nasty hot day in Red Deer. 🦌 If your home is not climate controlled, I provided a screenshot of air conditioned locations in our city. 🌇 And I suggested if you're a senior you might try Parkland Mall 🏬 where you can meet up with friends and food court 🍴 in a climate controlled setting. Stay cool! 🆒️

07/23/2026

Just a reminder where the cooling stations are throughout the city. I did ask for the website page but it took me to something talking about where to take shelter when it's minus 40°. I don't think that's going to be a problem today.

If you're a senior citizen and your home temperature is unacceptable, I suggest going to Parkland Mall . They have a nice large food court and you can meet up with other seniors in a temperature controlled environment.