UPDATE 2: RCMP release more info on shooting in Ponoka

UPDATE 1:53pm

On Feb. 10, 2022, at approximately 9:35 a.m., Ponoka RCMP received a report of an armed individual approaching the Ponoka RCMP Detachment holding a weapon. A confrontation occurred between the suspect and an officer, during which the officer discharged their service weapon.

Officers on scene provided first aid to the male until emergency medical services attended. The male was airlifted to hospital, the suspect sustained critical injuries as a result of the confrontation.

Our thoughts are with those affected by this event. No RCMP officers sustained injuries during the confrontation.

Ponoka RCMP have contained the area, and the Alberta Serious Incident Response Team (ASIRT) is attending the scene to initiate an investigation into the circumstances of the officer involved shooting.

The RCMP believes in processes that seek the facts and it’s important that processes taken to assess the actions of all those involved, including the police, are fair, transparent, and defendable. This is why, as soon as we became aware of this incident, we immediately notified the Director of Law Enforcement and initiated our internal review process. The Alberta Serious Incident Response Team (ASIRT) has been directed to investigate the circumstances surrounding the actions of the police during this investigation.

Independent of ASIRT’s investigation, the RCMP’s internal review process has been implemented to gather a full account of what took place during this incident. RCMP training, policy, police response, and the duty status of the members involved will be subject to review. The RCMP is, of course, fully cooperating with ASIRT and will not be commenting further on this incident. All media inquiries about this incident should now be directed to ASIRT at 780-641-9099.

UPDATE 12:39:

An Alberta RCMP spokesperson says there was an incident in the downtown Ponoka area near the RCMP detachment and Ponoka Courthouse.

"Unfortunately, one officer has discharged a firearm and a suspect has been shot. He's been airlifted tot he hospital with injuries," said RCMP Corporal Troy Savinkoff.

The Provincial Courthouse was locked down at around 9:45 this morning.

The Alberta Serious Incident Response Team (ASIRT) has been called in to investigate.

A further update is expected later today.