Two Melville RCMP officers were shot Saturday night while approaching a residence on 8th Avenue West, triggering a six-hour standoff that drew emergency response teams from across the province.
Melville RCMP received a call at approximately 9:30 p.m. June 21 reporting an assault at the address. As officers approached the home, a firearm was discharged and both members were struck. They were transported by EMS to hospital in Regina with serious injuries.
Chief Superintendent Murray Chamberlain, Criminal Operations Officer for the Saskatchewan RCMP, said Sunday morning he believes both officers are in stable condition, though medical care is ongoing.
“What started off as a report of an assault, something we attend to routinely, and it is a potentially life-changing call for two of our officers,” Chamberlain said.
The armed individual, believed to be an adult male, remained barricaded in the home as additional resources mobilized. Officers from Melville and surrounding detachments responded alongside Saskatchewan RCMP’s Critical Incident Response Team, which includes its Emergency Response Team, Police Dog Services, and Crisis Negotiation Team. The Serious Crimes Unit was also engaged, as were the province’s Protection and Response Team and Regina Police Service’s SWAT unit.
Chamberlain said RCMP does not believe officers discharged their firearms during the incident.
Saskatchewan RCMP continually assessed whether a dangerous person alert was required throughout the standoff. Officials determined one was not necessary, as the suspect remained contained to the residence and posed no elevated risk to the public.
At approximately 2 a.m. June 22, the suspect and a second occupant exited the home. The suspect was arrested and remains in custody. The second person was briefly detained before being cleared of any involvement.
Chamberlain said an internal review of the incident will take place, as it does following any serious event. He spent the night at the hospital with the injured officers and their families.
“This incident is a stark reminder of the danger police officers face every day,” Chamberlain said. “They continue to step forward to keep others safe despite knowing the risks.”
The Serious Crimes Unit has carriage of the investigation. No charges had been laid as of Sunday. RCMP said there is no further elevated risk to public safety but will notify the public immediately if that changes. An increased police presence will remain in Melville as the investigation continues.
Anyone with information is asked to contact 310-RCMP (7267).
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