The execution of a search warrant at a commercial property in Waseca, SK has led to the death of one man and an injury to an RCMP officer. A 33-year-old Lloydminster man was killed in a gunfire exchange that happened near midnight on February 26. 

According to an RCMP news release, the warrant was issued in relation to a Battlefords RCMP Gang Task Force investigation surrounding drugs and weapons trafficking in west-central Saskatchewan. Preliminary investigation determined cocaine, methamphetamine, fentanyl, and firearms were being trafficked in and around North Battleford.

Four people were in the building during the execution of the warrant. Police used what was termed “non-lethal methods” to take two adult males and one adult female into custody following negotiations. 

The fourth individual, a male, exited the building brandishing a firearm. After an attempt to get the man to comply with officers, an exchange of gunfire occurred during which the suspect was fatally injured. An RCMP officer was transported to hospital with non-life threatening injuries. The release notes that no further information is being provided about the officer’s injuries. 

The RCMP has requested the Saskatoon Police Service to conduct an independent inquiry into the incident in accordance with the Saskatchewan Police Act. 

“The Saskatchewan RCMP takes these matters very seriously. We are giving the external investigators at the Saskatoon Police Service our full cooperation as they conduct an independent, external investigation into the circumstances surrounding what happened,” said Assistant Commissioner Rhonda Blackmore – Saskatchewan RCMP Commanding Officer. “My thoughts are with our injured officer, the community, and the family of the deceased.”

The investigation into drug and weapons distribution in the area continues. Waseca is approximately 40 km east of Lloydminster on Highway 16.