IIO Deploys to Critical Incident in Vancouver
INFORMATION BULLETIN
Independent Investigations Office
For Immediate Release
SURREY – The Independent Investigations Office of BC confirms it has sent investigators to Vancouver after being notified of an officer involved shooting involving the Vancouver Police Department.
This afternoon, at approximately 5 p.m., officers responded to a complaint in the area of Gore and East Hastings Street in the Downtown Eastside. According to the police, there was a male with a knife who was threatening people near the First United Church.
Officers located the male at the scene and attempted to take him into custody. During this interaction, the male was shot by an officer(s). The male did not survive his injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Three other persons sustained stab wounds reportedly inflicted by the deceased; one person was transported to hospital.
The IIO was notified immediately and has sent a team of investigators to the scene. IIO resources include the Team Director, several Investigators, a Forensic Specialist and the Manager for Services to Affected Persons.
IIO investigators will be conducting standard investigative activities including locating and interviewing any witnesses and securing video from the area. The IIO will work with VPD to ensure that all physical evidence is located and seized.
The IIO investigation will focus on the actions of the police officers. The VPD will be responsible for the concurrent investigation into the actions of the affected person and any other persons involved prior to the incident.
The IIO will not be making comment on the number, gender or years of service of any involved officers, nor will the IIO release any identifying information about the deceased.
The BC Coroners Service is responsible for the death investigation and has jurisdiction over personal information related to the deceased.
This investigation is in the early stages. Updates will be made available as soon as possible.
Contact: kellie.kilpatrick@iiobc.ca