Thwarted taxi getaway leads to significant weapons seizure in northern B.C.

Prince George RCMP provided this photo of weapons seized after several residences were searched on Nov. 29, 2024.

The arrest of a man who allegedly set a stolen car on fire in front of police and tried to flee in a taxi led Mounties to properties in northern B.C. where multiple weapons were seized, according to authorities.

The investigation began in Prince George on Nov. 29, when downtown patrol officers witnessed an arson near Victoria Street and McCullough Avenue.

"The suspect was arrested a short distance away as he tried to flee in a waiting taxi, along with three other passengers," a news release from the Prince George RCMP says.

"Police officers located a loaded firearm as well as suspected fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine and hydromorphone inside the taxi."

The seizure of the drugs and weapon led to police executing search warrants on the residents of those caught in the cab.

"Once inside, police officers located multiple firearms, including several high-powered firearms, and ammunition," the statement from Mounties continues.

In addition to the weapons, officers also seized pineapple-shaped molds that were likely used to "press illicit drugs into candy-like shapes," according to police.

John Robert Barton Craig, 39, was charged with arson, unauthorized possession of a firearm, possession of stolen property, failure to comply with probation and possession of a restricted firearm and ammunition. He remains in custody.

The other three people arrested in the taxi were released pending charge approval, police say.