Calgary police reported that an officer was shot twice during a traffic stop near Edworthy Park on Monday. The officer is currently in stable condition and maintaining good spirits after the incident in southwest Calgary.
Chief Katie McLellan addressed the media, expressing the challenging nature of the day for the Calgary Police Service and the community when an officer is injured in the line of duty. The individual involved in the shooting was identified as a known target within organized crime circles.
The shooting occurred around 11:45 a.m. during a routine traffic stop when a passenger in the vehicle fired shots at the officers. The motive behind the traffic stop is under investigation.
Following the shooting, the suspect fled on foot into Edworthy Park, leading to a swift and dynamic police pursuit. The suspect later carjacked another vehicle, drove through the park until the vehicle became immobilized, and continued fleeing on foot.
During the pursuit, the suspect fired shots at the officers multiple times, prompting the officers to return fire. The chaotic and intense scene required a significant police presence from various parts of the city to secure the area and locate the suspect.
The pursuit continued with officers tracking the suspect on foot and utilizing air support from the Helicopter Air Watch for Community Safety (HAWCS). The suspect even shot at the police helicopter during the chase.
The suspect was eventually discovered deceased in the Bow River, with evidence indicating a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The investigation is ongoing to determine if any police bullets hit the suspect during the exchange of gunfire.
The Calgary Fire Department assisted in recovering the body, while a thorough search for additional evidence continued in the park. Chief McLellan expressed gratitude that the situation did not result in more tragic consequences and emphasized the officer’s expected full recovery.
The Alberta Serious Incident Response Team (ASIRT) has taken over the investigation into the incident.