Calgary (Rajeev Sharma): The Alberta Serious Incident Response Team (ASIRT) is investigating a fatal RCMP-involved shooting in Lac La Biche that occurred on July 27.
According to ASIRT, RCMP officers were dispatched at 11:47 a.m. after receiving a call for assistance from a local residence. When officers arrived, residents informed them that the man in question had left before their arrival.
A short time later, police located the man in a nearby field armed with two knives. Officers ordered him to drop the weapons, and one officer deployed a conducted energy weapon. A physical struggle followed, during which the man attacked an officer with a knife. A second officer then discharged his firearm, fatally wounding the man.
Emergency Medical Services (EMS) pronounced the man dead at the scene.
ASIRT has confirmed that it will investigate the officers’ use of force. No further details have been released at this time.
Authorities are also appealing for witnesses. Anyone who may have been in the area, seen the confrontation, or has video footage is urged to contact ASIRT investigators at 780-644-1483.
ASIRT’s mandate is to conduct independent and objective investigations into serious incidents involving Alberta police, including those resulting in death, serious injury, or allegations of serious misconduct.
