The officers retreated and called in backup. Residences in the vicinity were evacuated because “there was a threat of an explosion,” said RCMP. They did not offer details on the threat. Locals were transported to the Town and Country Centre. Airdrie RCMP were assisted by the Southern Alberta Emergency Response Team, police dog services, the Airdrie fire department, EMS and Calgary HAWCS (Helicopter Air Watch for Community Safety). Following a “lengthy” standoff, the man surrendered to police. Calgarian Paul Herbert Crellin, 51, is facing six charges, including possession of a prohibited weapon, unauthorized possession of a firearm in a motor vehicle and careless use of a firearm. He also had five outstanding warrants in Calgary and seven in Edmonton.