Police shoots knife-wielding male

2007-12-28 07:20:06 RCMP Media Release

On December 27, 2007, police officers from the Vernon/North Okanagan RCMP responded to arrest a male on a warrant issued under the Mental Health Act in the 3800 block of 27th Avenue. Upon attendance at the scene, the suspect produced a knife and threatened to use it on the police officers. Fearing grievous bodily injury or death, police subsequently shot the male who was then taken to Vernon Jubilee Hospital. He was pronounced dead a short time later. The police officers did not sustain any injuries. Southeast District Major Crime Section is currently on scene to investigate. The Coroners Service have also been advised.

As per protocol, The Commission for Public Complaints against the RCMP (CPC) has been advised and will be sending a representative to Vernon. This situation is another example of the many dangerous situations that police officers face. While the vast majority of police contacts with the public are resolved peacefully, physical force is occasionally required to subdue suspects. The Criminal Code allows police to use reasonable force in their enforcement of the law. In extremely rare instances an officer may be required to draw his or her firearm. It should be noted that drawing a firearm is only done under extreme circumstances. A firearm is only discharged if there is an immediate threat of extreme violence and to protect the lives of the public and officers. The investigation is continuing and further updates will be released to the media and public as they arise.