One of two knives located at the scene, according to ASIRT. (Photo Supplied)

By Chris Brown

ASIRT investigation into Medicine Hat man’s death continues

Aug 10, 2023 | 3:47 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB – Alberta’s police watchdog has released more details about a man’s death following an interaction with Medicine Hat Police on Aug. 6.

The Alberta Serious Incident Response Team (ASIRT) says its investigation will examine use of force by Medicine Hat Police Service officers.

According to ASIRT, city police responded to a call just after 2 p.m. on Sunday about a man screaming and swinging a machete.

Upon arrival, police told the man he was under arrest for possession of weapons for a dangerous purpose. The man barricaded himself inside an apartment in the 100 block of Second Avenue SE.

ASIRT says the 44-year-old eventually exited the residence holding a machete and knife and advanced toward police officers. The tactical team deployed non-lethal rounds at the man and restrained him. Police found two weapons at the scene.

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One of two knives found at the scene, according ASIRT. (Photo Supplied)

According to ASIRT, at 8:03 p.m. the man was transported to hospital and turned over to the care of hospital staff. ASIRT says at approximately 8:56 p.m., the man stopped breathing. Emergency medical measures were unsuccessful, and the man died.

No additional information will be released, says ASIRT.

As part of its ongoing investigation, ASIRT is attempting to identify people who may have witnessed parts of the confrontation between the man and police. Anyone who may have been in the area and may have witnessed these events and/or may have video is asked to contact investigators at 403-592-4306.

The Medicine Hat Police are unable to comment on what happened as the matter is under investigation by ASIRT.