SASKATOON — Update: The 35-year-old Saskatoon man injured in a police involved shooting on Feb. 23 will appear in Saskatoon Provincial Court Friday morning charged with possession of a weapon dangerous to the public peace (x2), carrying a concealed weapon (x2), pointing a firearm and breach of probation.
Update: After a suspect was shot by police Wednesday, an independent investigation is underway.
Following is a statement from Saskatoon Police Services Chief Troy Cooper regarding the officer-involved shooting Wednesday of a 35 year old man.
“Our officers are often called to unpredictable, dynamic situations where they must rely on their extensive training and make split second judgments. It is fortunate that there was no physical injury to our staff members, and that it did not result in more serious injury to the suspect.
“The fact that an injury did occur as a result of police action triggers an independent process of investigation and oversight. The Regina Police Service will complete this investigation, and it is well underway.
“While I am limited to what I am able to discuss about the incident that occurred yesterday, I can confirm a few details with you as well as provide an update on the status of the suspect in this matter. As you know our officers were dispatched to a report of a man armed with weapons, a handgun and machete specifically. Prior to officers arrival the suspect had left the residence but remained in the area, travelling on foot and in possession of his weapon. At the time our officers located and confronted him, he was still armed with a handgun. During the brief interaction with the suspect one officer discharged his firearm several times, and the suspect received an injury that he was treated at hospital for. He has since been released from the hospital and is in our custody facing charges related to this incident.
Further information will be released by the Regina Police Service when it becomes available.”
Original release: Members of the Regina Police Service will be investigating an SPS officer-involved shooting that occurred just before noon Wednesday at Avenue U South and 22nd Street West in Saskatoon.
At approximately 11:35 a.m., Feb. 23, police received a report of an armed male at a residence in the 200 block Avenue L South. The caller reported that a physical altercation took place at the door to the home before the 35-year-old suspect fled on foot armed with a handgun and machete.
Responding officers located the man and a confrontation occurred resulting in police firing several shots. The suspect received a non-life threatening wound and was transported to hospital.
In response to plans by the Saskatchewan Government to ensure greater independence in investigations into police involved incidents, the SPS immediately requested the investigation be led by the RPS. The Province will also be assigning two independent investigative observers, pursuant to the Saskatchewan Police Act, 1990.
Further information will be released by the Regina Police Service Major Crime Section as it becomes available.
