Calgary police have located the suspected Edworthy Park active shooter dead in the Bow River after he shot one officer, who remains stable in hospital after Monday morning’s altercation.
The Alberta Serious Incident Response Team is investigating an incident that happened in the city’s southwest at around 11:45 a.m. on Aug. 10, following a vehicle occupant firing shots at Calgary Police Service (CPS) officers during a traffic stop.
The man fled on foot with the handgun into Edworthy Park, where he continued to shoot at officers and nearby civilians before carjacking another vehicle, which became stuck. The suspect then left the car and resumed travelling further into the bush.
HAWCS helicopters later located the suspect’s remains in the river, which will be recovered with the assistance of the Calgary Fire Department.
During a media availability that afternoon, Insp. Darren Smith confirmed that the offender died by a self-inflicted gunshot wound. He said that a heavy police presence is in place at the park as law enforcement continues to investigate and search for evidence.
Insp. Smith said they are currently processing more than five scenes and that the park will remain closed to the public for an undetermined period. He said that their detectives are focusing on investigating what the shooter did leading up to his actions.
Chief Katie McLellan said that the offender was known to police as an individual involved with organized crime. She emphasized that the incident occurred quickly and that similar, severe events are becoming increasingly common across the city.
“This was very dynamic and unfolded within seconds,” said McLellan.
“Policing is an inherently unpredictable profession, and is becoming more violent on a daily basis.”
Despite this, she said that CPS officers are highly trained to handle and control violent situations, and that the actions of police helped to ensure that the incident did not escalate to hurt innocent bystanders.
“Our members are well trained, and this was strategic,” she said.
“It was because of those members’ efforts and the ability to contain this individual within minutes. It saved other people’s lives.”
Police have asked anyone who may have information regarding the incident to contact officers on scene or through their non-emergency line at (403) 266-1234.
