HRP release:

An officer discharged his service weapon this evening after a man threatened police with a knife.

At approximately 4:10 p.m., officers were called to the NSLC at 1616 Grafton Street for a robbery in progress. Staff reported that as the suspect left the store, he sprayed a sensory irritant.

At approximately 4:50 p.m., officers were called to the NSLC at 6169 Quinpool Road for a second robbery in progress. Staff again reported that as the suspect left the store, he sprayed a sensory irritant.

Officers located the suspect on Quinpool Road. As officers attempted to arrest the suspect he threatened police with a large knife. Officers gave verbal commands to drop the knife. An officer deployed a taser, but it was ineffective. A second officer then drew his service weapon and fired, striking the suspect.

The suspect, a 37-year-old man, was transported to hospital with life threatening injuries.

Quinpool Road, between Vernon Street and Monastery Lane, is closed to vehicle and pedestrian traffic as the investigation continues.

The incident will be investigated by the Serious Incident Response Team (SIRT). Any further inquiries should be directed to SIRT.