The Independent Investigation Unit (IIU) has charged a member of the RCMP with careless use of firearm following an investigation. The incident occurred June 10, 2018 and involved the discharge of a firearm by an RCMP officer during the course of an attempted traffic stop.
The IIU assumed jurisdiction of this investigation on December 21, 2018. The IIU was notified by the RCMP that an officer attempted to initiate a traffic stop but the vehicle fled and turned into a wooded area. The officer exited his vehicle to pursue on foot. When the vehicle turned and accelerated toward him, the officer discharged his firearm at the vehicle. The suspect vehicle fled and the driver was subsequently arrested without further incident. No injuries were sustained as a result of the incident.
The IIU has conducted a thorough and independent investigation into the circumstances of this incident. IIU Civilian Director Zane Tessler has determined there are reasonable grounds to believe a criminal offence occurred and, accordingly, has authorized the charge to be laid.
On September 19, 2019, RCMP officer Cst. Barry Kirby was notified of the charge. He was issued a summons and will appear in Provincial Court on November 15, 2019 in Selkirk, Manitoba.
