RCMP release:

Earlier today, the Nova Scotia RCMP responded to a report of a man with a firearm. The man sustained fatal injuries.

On January 13 at approximately 8:35 a.m., Sipekne’katik RCMP, assisted by East Hants District RCMP, responded to a report of a man with a firearm on Church St. in Sipekne’katik. Officers learned the man threatened people inside a home before he left the area in a Honda Civic. No injuries were reported. Officers located the vehicle travelling at a high speed on Indian Rd.

Based on the risk to public safety, officers pursued the vehicle. Additional officers from the Nova Scotia RCMP Emergency Response Team, Police Dog Services, Northeast Nova Traffic Services, and nearby detachments were deployed to assist. An emergency alert was issued to Hants and Colchester Counties and local schools were on hold and secure.

The vehicle left the road and came to a stop on Hwy. 236 near the intersection with Hwy. 202.

At this time, shots were fired. Officers and paramedics from EHS Emergency Preparedness and Special Operations attempted resuscitation. The man was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The matter has been referred to the Serious Incident Response Team (SiRT) as per the Nova Scotia Police Act. SiRT independently investigates all serious incidents which arise from the actions of police in Nova Scotia. There does not have to be an allegation of wrongdoing.

Given the matter is now being investigated by SiRT, the RCMP will respectfully refrain from discussing further details.

We extend our deepest sympathies to the man’s family at this difficult time.