At 11:30 am the Portage College Lac La Biche Campus was placed in lockdown for about 3 hours, ending at approximately 2:30 pm. The lockdown was called in response to a police (Royal Canadian Mounted Police - RCMP) situation that led to a suspect fleeing into the Campus.

The College instituted its emergency response plan at the request of the RCMP and after an extensive search of the campus, the RCMP apprehended the suspect.

During the campus search, students and staff sheltered in place until given the all clear by the RCMP and campus emergency responders.

"We thank the RCMP for their professionalism and to thank students and staff for their patience during the incident." Said Nancy Broadbent, Interim President & CEO of Portage College.

Courses linked to the Lac La Biche campus were cancelled for the rest of the day to resume the next day, November 23.

Portage College is making support services available to students and staff who require it.

Read the story by the RCMP here: Canada Police Report Website

Media Inquiries:
Jaime Davies, Corporate Communications Manager
780-623-5581 or email