EPS justified in fatally shooting man who stabbed mother, child to death: ASIRT

Edmonton Police Service (EPS) officers that shot and killed a man who fatally stabbed a mother and son in southeast Edmonton will not face criminal charges.

Following an investigation into the police use of firearms during a 911 call on May. 5, 2023, where officers responded to reports of multiple stabbings near Crawford Plains School, the Alberta Serious Incident Response Team (ASIRT) said the officers were justified in their decision to open fire because they were trying to prevent further death and bodily harm.

The police watchdog agency’s decision determined the man was seen as a lethal threat almost immediately after officers arrived on scene. Upon seeing law enforcement, the man discharged a can of bear spray in the direction of the officers and charged at them carrying two hunting-style knives while yelling “Come on! Come on!”

That’s when police opened fire with several rounds striking the man, and one bullet striking him in the head. He was treated by Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and taken to hospital, but taken off life support and declared dead five days later after medical staff determined he would not survive his injuries.

An autopsy report revealed the man had previously been admitted to a hospital in Calgary for psychiatric care and was taking medications to treat mental illnesses. The toxicology screening detected cannabis, fentanyl and methamphetamine were in his system during the attacks.