On Feb. 15, 2024, at approximately 10:22 p.m., Vegreville RCMP responded to a call of assault with a weapon where a victim had been stabbed, after which the suspect broke into a second residence. Upon entering the second residence, a confrontation with the suspect occurred which resulted in the officers firing their weapons. Officers immediately started life-saving measures on the suspect and the victim while waiting for EMS to attend. The suspect was transported by STARS with life-threatening injuries and the victim was transported to the hospital by EMS where she is in critical condition. A knife was found on scene.
No other members of the public or officers were injured during the incident.
In compliance with legislative requirements, the Director of Law Enforcement was immediately notified causing the deployment of ASIRT to conduct an independent investigation. The RCMP believes in accountability and transparency and in so doing will provide full support to the ASIRT investigators and also conduct its own internal review.
While use of weapons is never the outcome the RCMP hopes for and must be reviewed by ASIRT, it is apparent that the officers' actions prevented further harm as well as provided immediate life saving first aid to both the subject of the complaint and the victim. Events like this are difficult for the communities in which they occur, as well as the general public and RCMP officers involved. RCMP officers recognize the trust placed in them to use force that is necessary, proportional and reasonable and in so doing remain fully accountable.
All media inquiries about this incident should now be directed to ASIRT at 780-641-9099.