An inquest hears RCMP fatally shot Ryan Booker in 2022 unaware his rifle was unloaded. Jury to recommend measures to prevent future tragedies.
Police Inquest Uncovers Critical Details in Fatal Shooting
A coroner’s inquest in Moose Jaw has revealed that RCMP officers were unaware Ryan Booker’s rifle was unloaded when he was fatally shot during a standoff in July 2022.
Timeline of the Incident
The standoff began in the early hours of July 17, 2022, when RCMP received a report of a man threatening his partner in a Moose Jaw Superstore parking lot. The man, 26-year-old Ryan Booker, later pulled over near Belle Plaine on Highway 1, where a tense six-hour standoff unfolded.
Tactical Response and Use of Force
RCMP Const. Burton Steele, acting as a sniper, testified Tuesday that he was instructed to prevent Booker from fleeing. From 70 metres away, Steele said he saw Booker raise his rifle and aim it at officers, prompting him to shoot. Steele testified he only learned during this week’s inquest that the rifle contained no bullets.
Discovery of the Unloaded Weapon
Const. Breaden Loney, also at the scene, recounted efforts to approach the vehicle after the shot was fired. He confirmed there were no vital signs and later cleared Booker’s rifle, discovering it was not loaded. This was the first confirmation for officers involved that Booker’s weapon posed no actual ballistic threat.
Negotiation and Mental Health Concerns
Const. Jay Sills of the Moose Jaw Police Service said he spent nearly five hours negotiating with Booker before the shooting. Booker spoke of suicidal thoughts and distress over losing access to his children. Though Sills attempted to build rapport, he noted Booker’s condition worsened once tactical teams arrived.
Final Moments and Emotional Toll
Sills recounted that Booker cried and panicked as officers moved in. He ended their final phone call abruptly. Shortly after, he was shot when he allegedly aimed his rifle toward officers. Sills said the emotional weight of the situation was clear, with Booker feeling cornered and hopeless.
Inquest Purpose and Next Steps
The coroner’s inquest, held at a Moose Jaw courtroom, aims to determine the circumstances of Booker’s death and provide non-binding recommendations to prevent similar fatalities. The jury is expected to begin deliberations on Wednesday.
For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.
