The Alberta Serious Incident Response Team has been directed by the Director of Law Enforcement to investigate a police-involved shooting of an adult male in Calgary yesterday afternoon.
On March 16, 2015, Calgary Police Service officers attended the Super 8 Motel on Barlow Trail NE following a request to check on the well-being of an individual. The police officers attended to the room with a key provided by the Motel staff. When entry was attempted, police found that the security chain had been fastened on the door restricting entry. Police officers spoke with a male who appeared agitated and in medical distress. The male did not allow them entry into the room and closed the door.
Concerned for the male’s well-being, the police officers called EMS personnel to the scene and it was decided that they would forcibly enter the room. Upon entry into the room, a confrontation occurred that escalated into a high risk situation. Police used a Conducted Energy Weapon (CEW), commonly known to as a Taser, which had little impact. A police service weapon was then discharged striking the male. The 27-year-old adult male died at the scene.
The identity of the male person is being withheld pending notification of next-of-kin. He is believed to be a Calgary resident.
ASIRT’s investigation will focus on the circumstances surrounding the confrontation that resulted in the shooting of the individual. An autopsy is scheduled for this morning
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.