Winnipeg police exonerated in deadly Unicity shooting after officer suffers throat stabbing
Following an investigation into a fatal police shooting at the Unicity shopping center in Winnipeg, the Independent Investigation Unit (IIU) concluded that the officers acted within their rights. The incident occurred on November 24, 2024, and involved a man who allegedly stabbed an officer in the throat.
Incident Overview
The shooting unfolded when Winnipeg police responded to a report of potential theft at a nearby Walmart. Officers were conducting outreach to store personnel as part of a retail theft initiative. Upon encountering a man dressed in black, carrying a backpack, they identified themselves and attempted to detain him.
When the officers approached, the man reportedly punched one officer in the neck, causing him to fall. The officer then noticed that he was bleeding and that the suspect was armed with a knife.
Confrontation and Response
The suspect retreated to a nearby bus shelter, retrieving a hatchet in addition to the knife. IIU reports indicate that the officers ordered the man to drop his weapons. Eyewitnesses noted that he appeared to be taunting the officers during the standoff.
- Location: Unicity shopping center
- Date: November 24, 2024
- Main suspect: Armed with a knife and hatchet
- Injured officer: Suffered a throat stab but survived
As the situation escalated, the officers fired multiple rounds when the suspect advanced toward them. The officer who was attacked stated he feared for his life due to the potential for serious injury.
Aftermath of the Shooting
Emergency medical personnel attended to the suspect, who was later pronounced dead at a local hospital. A toxicology report revealed methamphetamine in his system. Witnesses estimated that approximately four minutes passed before life-saving measures were initiated by the police.
The injured officer was treated for a laceration to his neck, which required glue but spared major arteries. Items recovered from the scene included the hatchet and a X-acto knife, both located near the bus shelter.
Public Reactions and Ongoing Discussions
Two videos captured the incident, one of which circulated on social media, leading to criticism about the police’s response. Callers for reform suggested implementing body cameras for officers to enhance accountability in similar situations.
As the community digests the events of that evening, discussions regarding police protocols and the use of force continue to be at the forefront. This incident reflects the ongoing complexities faced by law enforcement in high-stakes confrontations within urban environments.
