The Special Investigations Unit (SIU) has cleared the officers involved in the shooting of a man after a days-long manhunt in Latchford.
According to the SIU, the incident occurred on July 15, 2021, when officers from the Temiskaming Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) responded to a call about a man who was allegedly armed and dangerous. The man, who has not been identified, was wanted in connection with a domestic incident.
The SIU report states that the officers located the man in a wooded area near Latchford and attempted to negotiate with him. However, the man refused to surrender and instead fired a shot at the officers. In response, the officers discharged their firearms, striking the man.
The man was transported to hospital where he was treated for non-life-threatening injuries. He has since been released from the hospital and is facing multiple charges, including attempted murder.
The SIU, which is an independent civilian agency that investigates incidents involving police that result in serious injury, death, or allegations of sexual assault, conducted a thorough investigation into the shooting. The agency interviewed the officers involved, as well as civilian witnesses and reviewed video footage of the incident.
After reviewing all the evidence, the SIU Director, Joseph Martino, concluded that the officers acted lawfully and in self-defense when they discharged their firearms. He stated, “In the circumstances, I am satisfied that the officers had reasonable grounds to believe that their lives were in danger and that it was necessary for them to use lethal force to protect themselves.”
The SIU’s findings have been welcomed by the OPP, who have stated that they fully cooperated with the investigation and will continue to do so in the future.
This incident serves as a reminder of the dangers that police officers face every day while carrying out their duties to protect the public. The SIU’s thorough investigation has provided clarity and closure for all parties involved.
