SIRT clears RCMP officer in 2025 shooting near Canwood

Apr 20, 2026 | 3:15 PM

The Saskatchewan Serious Incident Response Team (SIRT) has concluded no charges will be laid against an RCMP officer following a 2025 police shooting near Canwood.

SIRT deployed six investigators after it was notified of the incident May 28, 2025. The completed report was submitted for review Jan. 18, 2026.

According to the report, RCMP officers with the Warrant Enforcement and Suppression Team attempted to stop a dark-coloured SUV linked to a suspect wanted in connection to recent firearms incidents on James Smith Cree Nation. The vehicle fled, prompting a pursuit that at times left the roadway and continued through fields.

The SUV eventually struck an embankment east of Canwood and came to a stop. A 32-year-old man exited the driver’s side holding a silver-coloured handgun. Despite verbal commands from the officer for the suspect to show his hands, the suspect remained behind the SUV, moving from the front of the vehicle to the rear, before returning to the front. At that point, the RCMP officer fired two shots, striking the man in the arm.

The man fell to the ground and was arrested without further incident. A 30-year-old female passenger also exited the vehicle and was arrested. Both were taken to the hospital. The man was treated for a fractured left arm caused by the gunshot wound, while the woman was treated for injuries related to the crash.

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Investigators seized and tested the firearm, identifying it as a Norinco Model 1911 .45 calibre pistol, which is a restricted firearm. While it was later determined to be unloaded, ammunition was found in a bag the man discarded during the arrest.

SIRT reviewed witness statements, medical records, and video footage from body-worn and in-car cameras, which captured the pursuit and shooting.

The report found the officer reasonably believed the man posed an immediate threat of death or serious bodily harm, noting the presence of a firearm and the man’s movements indicated an intention to fight rather than surrender.

SIRT concluded the use of force was justified under the circumstances and fell within the limits of the law. As a result, no criminal charges will be laid, and the file will not be referred to the Attorney General.

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panews@pattisonmedia.com

by paNOW Staff

SIRT clears RCMP officer in 2025 shooting near Canwood

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