Quebec prosecutors say Gatineau officers were justified in fatally shooting a man who stabbed a colleague last fall. No charges will be filed.
Prosecutors Rule Use of Force Justified
Two Gatineau police officers will not face charges after fatally shooting a man who stabbed their colleague during a sudden attack in October 2024. Quebec’s Bureau des enquêtes indépendantes (BEI) and the Directeur des poursuites criminelles et pénales (DPCP) released separate reports Wednesday, concluding the officers’ actions were lawful and necessary.
Attack Began With 911 Call
According to investigators, the incident began late on October 23, 2024, when the man called 911 around 11:50 p.m. He reported finding a human hand inside a backpack at a bus shelter on rue Saint-Rédempteur. A Gatineau officer arrived shortly after and offered the man shelter in his patrol vehicle.
Sudden Stabbing of Officer
As the officer inspected the backpack, the man launched a surprise attack, stabbing him from behind. The officer, who sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries, was forced against the bus shelter and managed to radio for assistance while on the ground.
Backup Officers Respond
Within roughly 20 seconds, two additional officers arrived at the scene. They found their colleague face down, still under attack. Despite ordering the suspect to stop, the man continued the assault. Both officers then opened fire, discharging eight rounds, six of which struck the attacker. He collapsed and later died despite immediate medical efforts.
Investigations Confirm Decision
The DPCP report stated that the officers were justified in firing their weapons to protect their colleague, themselves, and others nearby. The BEI’s independent investigation supported this conclusion, noting the imminent threat posed by the suspect.
Oversight and Accountability
The BEI serves as Quebec’s independent police oversight agency, tasked with investigating cases involving death or serious injury during police interventions. Following its review, the DPCP decides whether criminal charges are warranted. In this case, both agencies determined the use of lethal force was legally defensible.
