On June 11, 2024, a dramatic incident unfolded on the streets of Winnipeg, leading to an officer-involved shooting that is now under investigation by the Independent Investigation Unit of Manitoba (IIU).
At approximately 5:20 p.m., the Winnipeg Police Service (WPS) received a distressing 911 call about a male individual attempting to ignite the fuel tank of a vehicle in the 800 block of Arlington Street. Despite his efforts, no fire was started.
The situation escalated when the male armed himself with a knife and a rock, running into traffic and confronting bystanders.
General Patrol officers arrived on the scene three minutes later, at approximately 5:23 p.m. They encountered the armed male in the street. As they approached him, a use-of-force encounter ensued. Officers deployed a Conducted Energy Weapon (Taser), but it had no effect on the male. Subsequently, a firearm was discharged, striking the male.
Officers immediately provided emergency medical care to the male and requested an ambulance. He was transported to the hospital in unstable condition, which has since been upgraded to stable.
The IIU has been notified of the incident and will assume responsibility for the investigation. The IIU is mandated to investigate any serious injury caused by the discharge of a firearm by a police officer. A team of IIU investigators has been deployed to the scene.
The IIU is appealing to witnesses or individuals who have information or video footage that may assist the investigation. They are asked to contact the IIU toll-free at 1-844-667-6060.
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