FORT McMURRAY — An RCMP officer involved in a 2024 shooting in Fort McMurray has been cleared of any wrongdoing following an investigation by Alberta’s police watchdog.
In a decision released March 19, the Alberta Serious Incident Response Team found the officer acted lawfully and reasonably when she shot a man during a confrontation in a residential backyard.
The incident began Dec. 12, 2024, when RCMP responded to reports of yelling and crying from a basement suite, prompting concerns about a possible domestic disturbance. After knocking and announcing themselves for several minutes, officers were eventually allowed inside, where they encountered a man who made threats and then fled through a window into the backyard.
Police pursued the man outside, where the officer was struck in the head with a glass whiskey bottle shortly after entering the yard. Investigators determined the blow was forceful enough to pose a risk of serious injury or death. The officer responded by firing her service weapon, striking the man, who was later treated in hospital and survived.
Evidence reviewed by ASIRT, including witness statements, video footage and forensic analysis, confirmed the man initiated the assault. DNA testing also found both the officer’s and the man’s DNA on the bottle used in the attack.
The report also notes the man later pleaded guilty to assaulting the officer in connection with the incident.
ASIRT concluded the officer’s use of force met the legal threshold under the Criminal Code, finding she reasonably believed her life was at risk and had no time to consider alternatives before responding. Investigators said her actions were proportionate and necessary in the circumstances, and no charges will be laid.
ASIRT is Alberta’s independent civilian agency responsible for investigating serious incidents involving police, including those resulting in injury, death or allegations of misconduct. The agency operates at arm’s length from law enforcement and is mandated to determine whether officers’ actions meet the standard of criminal law.
Comments