Saskatoon Police have released some information about the person fatally shot by an officer on Thursday.

In a written statement, Police Chief Troy Cooper said late in the afternoon members of the Guns and Gangs Unit were made aware that a 36-year-old man, wanted by La Loche RCMP, was in a multi-unit building on the 1300 block of Avenue E North. The man had a gun, was in breach of release conditions and had removed his electronic monitoring device.

Officers report the man pointed the firearm at them both inside and outside of the apartment building.

Police Chief Cooper says it was extremely fortunate that no officers or bystanders were physically harmed. He calls it “an example of the unpredictable and dangerous situation our officers face far too often.”

The incident is being investigated by the Regina Police Service with assistance from the Serious Incident Response Team.

Chief Cooper’s full statement released on Friday afternoon is below:

Late yesterday afternoon members of our Guns and Gangs Unit became aware that a 36-year-old male who was wanted by La Loche RCMP was in the 1300 block of Avenue E North and was armed with a gun.  The male was in breach of release conditions and had removed his electronic monitoring device.  Officers reported the male pointed his firearm at them both inside and outside the multi-unit residence.  Members of the Tactical Support Unit made entry into the home in an attempt to ensure the safety of the other occupants in the building.  As we have previously released, it was at that time they were confronted by the suspect and the fatal shooting occurred.

We are extremely fortunate that our officers and the bystanders were not physically harmed.  This is an example of the unpredictable and dangerous situations our officers face far too often.  They must rely on their extensive training and professionalism to make split-second decisions.  Mental health supports are in place within our organization to assist.  RCMP Victims Services support has been offered to the family of the deceased.

The shooting has prompted an independent process of investigation and oversight.  The Regina Police Service is conducting this investigation with assistance from the Serious Incident Response Team. Further information will be provided by the RPS.