A 59-year-old man died Friday night following an officer-involved shooting in southwest Edmonton. According to an Edmonton police news release, the shooting followed a series of alleged hit-and-run collisions and assaults involving a blunt object.
The incident began just before midnight when a vehicle collided with an Edmonton Fire Rescue Services truck. Police allege the driver attempted to assault emergency personnel with a blunt object before fleeing the scene.
What led to the officer-involved shooting?
Officers subsequently received two additional reports of hit-and-run collisions in southwest Edmonton involving a similar vehicle. In those incidents, a man allegedly assaulted complainants with a blunt object, resulting in one person suffering minor injuries.
Investigators later located a vehicle with recent collision damage in an open garage at a residence on Christie Vista S.W. When officers attempted to make contact with the suspect, a confrontation occurred involving a man armed with edged weapons.
An officer discharged a firearm during the interaction, and the 59-year-old man died at the scene. No police officers or other emergency personnel were injured during the encounter.
Who is investigating the incident?
The Alberta Serious Incident Response Team (ASIRT) has been tasked with investigating the shooting. The Edmonton Police Service stated they will not provide additional information while the investigation is underway.
What happens next?
The investigation by ASIRT could lead to a formal review of the circumstances surrounding the discharge of the firearm. Police may release further details once the investigative process is complete.
Frequently Asked Questions
Was anyone else injured during the incidents?
One person suffered minor injuries during the alleged assaults, but no police or emergency personnel were injured during the shooting.
Where did the confrontation take place?
The confrontation occurred at a residence on Christie Vista S.W. after police located a matching vehicle in an open garage.
Why is the police service not sharing more details?
The Edmonton Police Service said they will not be providing additional information while the investigation by ASIRT is underway.
How does the involvement of an independent investigative team impact public perception of police actions?
