FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. - British Columbia’s police watchdog says investigators have interviewed multiple witnesses and received forensic reports as it continues to investigate a police-involved shooting that seriously injured a man in Fort St. John earlier this year.
In an update Tuesday, the Independent Investigations Office of B.C. (I.I.O.) said investigators have identified several witnesses, conducted interviews and reviewed multiple reports, including forensic analysis, since opening the case in March.
The agency says it is now awaiting additional medical information as the investigation continues.
The update represents the latest progress in the investigation, which was launched after an RCMP traffic stop near 86 Street and 97 Avenue on March 29.
According to the I.I.O., officers stopped a black Ford pickup truck at about 3:15 a.m. with two people inside. During the interaction that followed, a weapon was reportedly involved and an officer discharged their firearm, injuring the man who had been seated in the passenger seat.
The man was taken to hospital with serious injuries.
When the incident was first reported, BC RCMP said one of the occupants of the vehicle was believed to have outstanding warrants.
Police also said the passenger exited the truck armed with a weapon before an interaction occurred that led to the officer firing their gun.
The IIO, which investigates police-related incidents that result in serious harm or death, says its work is ongoing and is continuing to seek information from the public.
Anyone with information or video footage related to the incident is asked to contact the agency’s witness line.
At the conclusion of the investigation, the IIO’s chief civilian director will determine whether there are reasonable grounds to believe an offence may have occurred.