RCMP responds to border incursion at Coutts port of entry

On Tuesday, February 4th, at approximately 7:45 a.m., an individual attempted to enter Canada through the Coutts port of entry.

The male was referred to the secondary inspection area, however, he fled northbound from the Port of Entry.

Officers with the Canada Border Services Agency quickly notified the RCMP Integrated Border Enforcement Team of the border incursion who notified surrounding RCMP Detachments as well as all Lethbridge Police Service.  As a result of this notification, the suspect vehicle was located near Raymond by the RCMP and a traffic stop was initiated but the driver failed to stop.

The suspect drove into Lethbridge then traveled to Raymond at which time the driver was seen holding what appeared to be a firearm.

A Tire Deflation Device was successfully used by RCMP officers south of Milk River and the vehicle came to a stop.

The male then fled on foot and he was pursued by RCMP Police Dog Services and other RCMP officers.

During the pursuit, the male sustained a self-inflicted firearm related injury and was pronounced deceased on scene.

In compliance with legislative requirements, the director of law enforcement was immediately notified causing the deployment of ASIRT to conduct an independent investigation. The RCMP believes in accountability and transparency, and in so doing, will provide full support to the ASIRT investigators.