SIRT to Investigate Injuries Sustained During Arrest in Saskatoon

Released on November 10, 2023

On Thursday, November 9 at approximately 12:38 p.m., the Saskatchewan Serious Incident Response Team (SIRT) received a notification from the Saskatoon Police Service (SPS) regarding an incident that had occurred that morning in Saskatoon. 

SIRT's Civilian Executive Director accepted the notification as within SIRT's mandate and directed an investigation by SIRT. 

At approximately 9:53 a.m., a prolonged high-speed incident ended when a stolen vehicle traveled over a steep embankment and came to rest in a wooded area near the riverbank. The driver of the vehicle, a 37 year-old man, exited the vehicle and fled on foot toward the river. Following a brief foot pursuit, members of SPS made contact with the man and a struggle ensued. During this struggle, both the man and several members of SPS fell down a second embankment. The man was ultimately taken into custody by police and transported to SPS detention. While in detention, the man complained of pain and was transported to hospital where it was determined that he had sustained an injury. 

Immediately following the notification, a SIRT team consisting of the Civilian Executive Director and four SIRT investigators were deployed to begin their investigation. A community liaison has been appointed pursuant to S.91.12(1)(a) of The Police Act, 1990.  

SIRT's investigation will examine the conduct of police during this incident, including the circumstances surrounding the man's arrest and the cause of his injury. SPS will maintain responsibility for the investigation into the original inciting offenses. No further information will be released at this time. A final report will be issued to the public within 90 days of the investigation ending.

SIRT's mandate is to independently investigate incidents where an individual has died or suffered serious injury arising from the actions of on and off-duty police officers, or while in the custody of police, as well as allegations of sexual assault or interpersonal violence involving police.

For updates on SIRT investigations, follow SIRT on Twitter at https://twitter.com/SIRT_SK.

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