The Director of Law Enforcement has directed the Alberta Serious Incident Response Team (ASIRT) to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of a man who was found in a wooded area near 32 street within Red Deer city limits on November 11, 2015.
Investigation has determined the man was likely involved in an incident with Red Deer RCMP officers in the same area on October 6, 2015.
On that same date, Red Deer RCMP officers were following a reported stolen vehicle. The vehicle refused to stop at which time the RCMP called off their pursuit. A short time later, the vehicle was seen again and followed. The vehicle stopped in the area of 32 Street, east of Taylor Drive and two people fled into the woods. Police attempted to locate the individuals but were unsuccessful.
On November 11, 2015, the RCMP conducted a search of the same wooded area and came across a deceased man.
Investigation into both incidents indicates that the man who ran into the woods on October 6 was likely the same individual who was found deceased. An autopsy has been conducted and there is no evidence to suggest the 45-year old man died as a result of any physical injury or direct contact with the police. The second person that fled into the woods on October 6 has been subsequently identified, located, and interviewed.
ASIRT’s investigation will focus on the circumstances surrounding the events that took place on October 6, 2015 to determine whether or not any acts or omissions by police officers contributed to the death of the man.
In light of the fact that ASIRT’s investigation is in its early stages, no further information will be released until the investigation has been concluded.
ASIRT’s mandate is to effectively, independently, and objectively investigate incidents involving Alberta’s police that have resulted in serious injury or death to any person, as well as serious or sensitive allegations of police misconduct.