A recent police operation in Salmo took a dramatic turn when an RCMP officer shot a suspect, leading to an investigation by British Columbia’s police oversight body.
The Independent Investigations Office of BC (IIO) has been called in to look into the incident, which unfolded during the execution of a search warrant on Sept. 3.
The events transpired as members of the Southeast District Emergency Response Team (ERT) were assisting Creston RCMP with the search at a property on Ski Hill Road around 10:11 a.m.
Upon locating a man on the property, police informed him of his arrest. Instead of cooperating, the man retreated into a travel trailer, prompting a tense standoff.
Despite efforts by officers to peacefully resolve the situation, the man refused to exit the trailer. It was reported that the man then brandished what appeared to be a weapon at the entrance.
In response, an officer fired their gun, causing the man to retreat back into the trailer. After an hour-long standoff, the man surrendered and was taken into custody.
Following the shooting, the man received medical attention at the scene and was later transported to the hospital with serious injuries.
The IIO was promptly notified by the RCMP, and the investigation is ongoing as the area remains secured.
