Extensive Vandalism In Vermilion Leads To Arrest And Over $1 Million In Damages

Vermilion was shaken over the weekend of July 6 following a massive act of vandalism that left the Provincial Building—home to the Courthouse, Public Health Office, and Children’s Rehab Services significantly damaged. Numerous windows were smashed, and the Children’s Rehab facility sustained both interior and exterior destruction. Six sheriff vehicles on-site were also heavily vandalized. Additionally, the local McDonald’s restaurant suffered extensive damage, with the total estimated costs from the incident exceeding $1 million.

Two local youths played a critical role in alerting the RCMP. They reported what they had witnessed and provided a detailed account of the events. Officers arrived within minutes and discovered shattered windows, destroyed equipment, and widespread property damage.

According to Cpl. Brittany Pegg, the investigation, supported by Kitscoty RCMP and Alberta RCMP Police Dog Services, quickly led to the arrest of a suspect. Steven Bodurka, 23, of Vermilion, was apprehended in the early hours of July 7, just south of the McDonald’s location.

“No motive for this destruction has been indicated by Mr. Bodurka,” stated Cpl. Pegg. “Police were called and arrived within minutes, thanks to the two young witnesses who provided a clear and timely report.”

Bodurka has been charged with six counts of mischief to a vehicle over $5,000, two counts of mischief over $5,000, and one count of break and enter to commit mischief over $5,000. He remains in custody and was scheduled to appear in Alberta Court of Justice on July 15. Additional charges will not be laid in this matter.

While Cpl. Pegg could not confirm whether drugs, alcohol, or mental health concerns played a role, she emphasized the importance of public awareness and reporting.

“This perfectly highlights how community vigilance, combined with the efficiency of your Vermilion RCMP, effective partnerships, and assistance from other detachments and specialized units, can allow us to keep Vermilion safe, together,” she said.

Cpl. Pegg also noted that the RCMP has recently implemented the 310-RCMP line and online reporting options for minor vandalism. “For events happening in the moment, the public is encouraged to call 911 or contact the Vermilion RCMP detachment directly. Public reporting of significant damage is essential, this is our community, and we all have a role in keeping it safe.”

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The McDonald’s restaurant was heavily impacted, with both drive-thru lanes sustaining serious damage.

According to co-owner James Richer, the vandalism occurred shortly before or around 1:30 a.m. on July 7. “Our late-night staff contacted our General Manager right after calling the police. Tamara (my wife) and I arrived on scene early that morning as an investigator was already there to collect surveillance footage,” explained Richer.

Although the business did not have to close, it did experience operational disruptions. “We lost sales because guests assumed we were closed. Both lanes had their pre-sell and menu boards completely smashed in,” Richer said. “He used a large rock, kicked the glass with what looked like work boots, and even rammed the boards with his body.”

The estimated cost of damages at McDonald’s is expected to range between $25,000 and $75,000, depending on whether the full units need replacing. The owners are currently awaiting assessments from their insurance providers, Samsung and Pattison Signs.

Richer also described the suspect’s confrontation with staff. “He came back angry, saying we didn’t take his order when he walked up to the drive thru. Our cashier explained that only a vehicle triggers the sensor. He then told them he had smashed the boards and walked away. The cashier, a little confused by what he had said, waited until he left before quickly checking the menu boards. That’s when the police and the General Manager were called.”

“The RCMP were excellent,” said Richer. “They apprehended the individual quickly and worked closely with us. Our surveillance footage helped identify the suspect clearly.”

Despite the damages, the McDonald’s team has remained committed to serving the community. “We’d like to thank the guests who continue to come through the drive-thru. We know it’s frustrating not having menu pictures, but the McDonald’s app has the full menu, and our staff are still here to take your order like normal. The speakers and communication at the menu board work perfectly,” said Richer. “Our priority is to maintain our staff’s work hours, and continued support for the Vermilion McDonald’s drive-thru team is truly appreciated.”

Management responsible for the Provincial Building was contacted but declined to comment at this time.

The investigation is ongoing. Thanks to the swift action of local youth, the rapid response of law enforcement, and community cooperation, the matter is now before the court system.