Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)
At 4:29 p.m., Fort McMurray RCMP responded to calls of an intoxicated male in the area of the ESSO located at 323 Athabasca Avenue. Officers attended and attempted to arrest the male. The male was non-compliant, and a struggle ensued between two officers and the male. The male was placed in handcuffs and was noted to have gone into medical distress. Life-saving measures were attempted by the attending officers and emergency medical services. The male was brought to the hospital at which time he was declared deceased.
A review of security camera footage and RCMP watchguard video indicates that this event was witnessed by multiple civilians, including some who appear to be videotaping the incident. ASIRT is asking anyone who either witnessed the event, or took video of it, to contact investigators at 780-644-1483.
ASIRT’s investigation will examine the actions of the RCMP officers in arresting the male. No additional information will be released.
ASIRT’s mandate is to effectively, independently and objectively investigate incidents involving Alberta’s police that have resulted in serious injury or death to any person, as well as serious or sensitive allegations of police misconduct.
This release is distributed by the Government of Alberta on behalf of the Alberta Serious Incident Response Team.