The Alberta Serious Incident Response Team (ASIRT) is investigating after a man died following an altercation with Lloydminster RCMP May 7.
According to Lloydminster RCMP, they received a 911 call at 5:09 a.m. about an intoxicated man with a machete who was causing a disturbance at a residence in the area of 52 Avenue and 35 Street.
When police arrived at the residence they found a 26-year-old man on the back deck of the home. Police say he was displaying signs of intoxication, was agitated and the machete was seen on the deck.
Two officers tried to arrest the man and a struggle followed. A third officer arrived to provide assistance and the man was taken into police custody.
While in custody at the scene, however, the man started exhibiting signs of medical distress and officers provided first aid. Emergency medical services were called to assist and despite their efforts, he was declared deceased at the residence.
Two RCMP officers required medical treatment at Lloydminster Hospital for minor injuries as a result of this incident.
ASIRT will investigate the conduct of the involved officers.
“Independent of ASIRT's investigation, the RCMP's internal review process will also be implemented to fully examine the incident,” said Cpl. Deanna Fontaine, Alberta RCMP Media Relations.
“RCMP training, policy, police response, and the member's duty status will be subject to review. The RCMP is fully cooperating with ASIRT and will not be commenting further on this incident.”
Lloydminster borders the provinces of Saskatchewan and Alberta.
