Investigation Commences into Injury Suffered by Male Pursued on Foot by Bridgewater Police

The province's independent Serious Incident Response Team (SiRT) is investigating an incident where a 26-year-old male suffered a broken ankle while attempting to escape from members of the Bridgewater Police Service (BPS) on July 6.

Members of the BPS were called to a report of a male shoplifter at the Bridgewater SuperStore shortly after 7 p.m. After their arrival, the male fled from police on foot, running across a bridge to King St. The police ran after the male, who was eventually seen on the roof of the old post office building on the corner of King and Dominion Streets.  The male was then observed to jump from the roof, and upon landing suffered a broken ankle. EHS was called, who arrived and transported the male to hospital.

In accordance with the provisions of the Police Act, BPS contacted SiRT very shortly after the incident.  SiRT commenced an investigation at that time.

Anyone who may have witnessed the incident is asked to call SiRT at 1-855-450-2010.

The Serious Incident Response Team is responsible for investigating all serious incidents involving police in Nova Scotia, whether or not there is an allegation of wrongdoing. Investigations are under the direction and control of independent civilian director Ron MacDonald.

The team can independently begin an investigation after a referral from a chief of police, the head of the RCMP in Nova Scotia or the Minister of Justice. It can also investigate after a complaint from the public.

The Police Act requires the director to file a public report summarizing the result of the investigation within three months after it is finished.

Media Contact:
Ron MacDonald, QC
Director
902-718-9707
macdonrj@gov.ns.ca