B.C. Police Watchdog Probes Fort St. John Shooting That Left Man Seriously Injured

British Columbia’s police watchdog is investigating a shooting in Fort St. John that left a man with life-threatening injuries following an early morning traffic stop.

The Independent Investigations Office of BC (IIO) says the incident occurred around 3:15 a.m. Sunday, when officers with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) stopped a black pickup truck near 86 Street and 97 Avenue.

What happened

Two people were inside the vehicle at the time of the stop.

According to the IIO, events escalated during the interaction, and a weapon was reportedly involved. An officer discharged their firearm, striking a man who had been in the passenger seat.

The man was transported to hospital with serious, life-threatening injuries.

RCMP account

In a separate statement, RCMP said the vehicle was stopped because one of the occupants was believed to have outstanding arrest warrants.

Police allege that a person exited the vehicle armed with a weapon, leading to an encounter with officers that resulted in the shooting.

No officers were physically injured in the incident.

Investigation underway

The IIO, which independently investigates incidents involving police that result in serious harm or death, says it was notified shortly after the shooting and has begun collecting evidence.

As is standard in such cases, police will not release further details while the investigation is ongoing.

What happens next

Investigators will examine the sequence of events, including:

• The actions of both the individual and officers

• Whether the use of force was justified

• Any available witness accounts and forensic evidence

The IIO’s findings will determine whether the case is referred to the B.C. Prosecution Service for possible charges.

Ongoing scrutiny

Incidents involving police use of force are automatically reviewed in British Columbia to ensure transparency and accountability.

For now, officials say the investigation remains active, and more details will be released as they become available.