Independent Investigations Office of BC opens case for Revelstoke shooting

An Aug. 27 shooting in downtown Revelstoke is under investigation by the Independent Investigations Office (IIO) of BC after the suspect of a reported automobile theft was reportedly shot and killed by a Revelstoke RCMP officer.

Staff Sergeant Kris Clark, senior media relations officer at the RCMP E Division told the Revelstoke Mountaineer local RCMP units received reports of a stolen vehicle at 11 p.m that day.

Officers were able to locate the vehicle with the suspect inside. A collision between the reported stolen vehicle and a chase vehicle occurred and the suspect attempted to flee the scene. While being pursued on foot, the suspect reportedly entered an RCMP vehicle and an officer discharged their weapon. Emergency Health Services were called to the scene and transported the suspect to hospital where they were later pronounced deceased.

IIO told Revelstoke Mountaineer they were made aware of the incident and officially opened an investigation Aug. 28 at 12:10 a.m. 

“Initial investigative steps will seek to confirm the details of what occurred leading up to and during the interaction with police. And what role the officer’s actions or inaction may have played in the person’s death,” IIO announced in a press release.

Community members who are looking for ways to safely process the incident, whether they were a witness or are impacted by the news are encouraged by Interior Health to access the phone resources available to residents across B.C.

“If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, call 310-MHSU (6478) or visit the local mental health and substance use centre at 1200 Newlands Road,” Jennie Bui, Communications and Engagement Consultant for Interior Health said. She reminded readers they can also speak to their family doctor or nurse practitioner to ask for a referral. Those without a family doctor can also access Keystone Health and their provided counseling services without a referral. Employers may offer mental health resources through benefits packages and employees are encouraged to check out and access those available services.

IIO, an independent civilian oversight agency for police forces in B.C., asks any witnesses and those with footage of the incident to contact them via their Witness Line toll-free at 1-855-446-8477 or the contact form on the iiobc.ca website