Photo: CKRW file.
Whitehorse, YT – Investigators have cleared RCMP officers in a fatal shooting outside Whitehorse in January.
A report from Alberta’s police watchdog, ASIRT, says officers were trying to arrest 55-year-old Christopher John Delaney on multiple violent firearms-related charges on Jan. 27 when a chase occurred on the Alaska Highway. The chase ended when the suspect’s vehicle was forced into a snowy ditch.
Officers used less-lethal rounds, gas and other tactics after he refused commands and tried to flee on foot.
Investigators say the man then turned back toward officers, holding what appeared to be a handgun. Three Mounties fired 29 rounds, killing him at the scene.
The weapon was later determined to be a paintball gun that closely resembled a real firearm.
ASIRT says the officers’ use of force was reasonable, necessary and proportionate under the circumstances, and no charges will be laid.
