Suspect allegedly shot at police while barricaded inside St. Vital home; IIU investigating

Manitoba’s police watchdog — the Independent Investigation Unit of Manitoba (IIU) — says it’s investigating events surrounding a recent arrest in Winnipeg that caused an injury.

The IIU says they were informed of the incident Monday from the Winnipeg Police Service, which indicated that officers were trying to arrest a 44-year-old man with five outstanding warrants at 12:23 p.m.

The WPS said when officers arrived at the scene, along the first block of Worthington Avenue, the man reportedly fired a weapon and refused to leave the home. No officers were injured.

Sometime later, officers noticed smoke and fire coming from the west side of the home. After the fire started, the man exited the home and was taken into custody, according to police.

The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service said the fire started around 2:30 p.m. and was declared under control shortly after 3 p.m.

During the arrest, one officer used a less-lethal firearm, and the man was hit with a bean bag, police say. He was then taken to a hospital for treatment, where it was confirmed he suffered a bruise to his torso and smoke inhalation.

Due to the events surrounding the injuries, WPS informed the IIU.

Investigators are asking if anyone has any information to contact the IIU at 1-844-667-6060.