Port Hardy RCMP has contacted the Independent Investigations Office of BC following a police-involved shooting.
Shortly after 11:00 am on July 8, 2015, Port Hardy RCMP responded to a report of a man who was making threats towards security staff at a firefighting staging area on the Port Hardy Secondary School grounds. Reports indicated that the suspect was brandishing a knife.
The Port Hardy Secondary School field is currently being utilized as a staging area for helicopters and crews working on firefighting activities in the region.
Port Hardy RCMP officers responded, ultimately locating the alleged suspect near the intersection of Granville Street and Highway 19 (Island Highway).
Police say a confrontation occurred, and shots were fired by police. The suspect is now deceased. Physical evidence has been secured at scene, pending the arrival of IIO-BC investigators.
No police officers or other members of the public were injured during this incident.
The IIO has asserted jurisdiction and taken over the investigation into this incident. Anyone with information, or who many have witnessed the incident is asked to contact the IIO Toll-free Witness Line at 1-855-446-8477 (TIPS).
Given that the IIO is now leading this investigation, no further comment will be provided by the RCMP at this time.
