An armed man in crisis was shot dead by a Victoria police officer Sunday (Sept. 12) morning near Mayfair mall after the force says efforts to de-escalate the situation failed.
Shortly before 10 a.m., Saanich police were called to the intersection of Douglas Street and Tolmie Avenue, along the Victoria-Saanich border, for a report the man was making threats. While there, police were told he had also stolen from a nearby liquor store while armed.
Several Victoria police officers also arrived to assist.
VicPD says officers engaged with the man until about 11 a.m. when an interaction occurred. A Victoria police officer shot the man and, despite other officers’ attempts to save him, he died.
READ ALSO: Public inquest launched into death of Victoria man shot by police
No police officers were injured.
“Based on what I know, I have every confidence that our officers acted appropriately based on their training and their experience,” Victoria Police Chief Del Manak said in a video statement Sunday night. He added he believes it’s important that no one rushes to judgement before an investigation is complete.
The Independent Investigations Office of B.C., an agency that probes all police-involved injuries or deaths in B.C., are reviewing the incident. Anyone with information can contact them at 1-855-446-8477.
First and foremost, @vicpdcanada thoughts are with the family of the man who has died. Out of respect for the IIO investigation, I cannot say much so please refrain from rushing to judgement. Call call the IIO at 1 855 446 8477 if you any info to share. Thanks. https://t.co/e769M2BSQt
— Del Manak (@ChiefManak) September 13, 2021
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Police (here seen at the intersection of Tolmie Avenue and Street) remain on scene near the corner of Douglas Street and Tolmie Avenue as they deal an incident that started in the late morning hours of Sunday. (Kiernan Green/News Staff)
