The Serious Incident Response Team (SiRT) is now investigating after an officer discharged his firearm in response to a robbery.
Halifax Regional Police were called to the NSLC at 1616 Grafton St. for a robbery shortly after 4 p.m. on Saturday. Staff reported that as the suspect left the store, he sprayed a sensory irritant.
Approximately 40 minutes later, officers were called to another NSLC at 6169 Quinpool Rd. for a second robbery. Staff again reported the suspect sprayed a sensory irritant.
HRP says responding officers located the suspect on Quinpool Road.
As officers attempted to arrest the suspect, he allegedly threatened police with a “large knife”, HRP says.
Officers commanded the suspect drop the knife. An officer deployed a taser, but police say it was ineffective.
A second officer drew his firearm and shot the suspect.
The suspect, a 37-year-old man, was transported to hospital with life-threatening injuries.
The SiRT is now investigating as it does in any case involving death, serious injury, sexual assault and intimate partner violence that may have arisen from the actions of any police officer.
Quinpool Road between Vernon Street and Monastery Lane is closed as the investigation continues.