The Independent Investigation Unit of Manitoba (IIU) has concluded its investigation into the deployment of a less-lethal firearm during an arrest incident that occurred in February of 2024.
On February 26, 2024, the Winnipeg Police Service (WPS) notified the IIU of an incident that had occurred earlier that day. According to the notification, at approximately 12:23pm, officers attended a residence on Worthington Avenue to arrest an adult male with five outstanding warrants. When officers arrived, the male refused to answer the door. He communicated with police through a bedroom window and indicated he had a firearm. An officer then heard a popping sound inside the residence and saw a cracked window. The Tactical Support Team (TST) was called to the scene to negotiate with the male and resolve the matter without incident. The man refused to comply with police commands and started a fire in the residence. The male eventually exited the residence through a bedroom window and climbed onto the roof of a structure attached to the back of the house. A TST officer deployed a less-lethal firearm three times to effect the arrest of the male. The man was transported to Health Sciences Centre Winnipeg for treatment.
Because the incident involved the deployment of a less-lethal firearm, the male’s injuries were considered serious injuries as defined in the IIU regulations. The IIU assumed responsibility for this investigation in accordance with Sec. 66(4) of the Police Services Act. IIU investigators were assigned to this investigation. One subject officer and five witness officers were designated.
Following due consideration of all the circumstances, the civilian director concluded the officer’s use of a less-lethal firearm was reasonable. Therefore, no charges are recommended against the subject officer. The IIU investigation is complete and the matter is now closed.
As an affected person remains before the court on charges arising from the incident, the civilian director’s report on the incident will be made available once those charges are disposed.
