Kamloops RCMP Superintendent Brad Mueller
(JENNIFER STAHN / iNFOnews.ca)
January 21, 2015 - 12:36 PM
KAMLOOPS – The superintendent from the Kamloops RCMP detachment says it’s “business as usual” for his staff, even though it is a “somber day” for police across Canada.
St. Albert RCMP Const. David Matthew Wynn died in hospital today, Jan. 21 after succumbing to a bullet wound to his head. Wynn and his auxiliary officer, Const. Derek Bond, were shot by Shawn Rehn when the two investigated a stolen truck. Rehn was later found dead after committing suicide. Bond survived the injuries he sustained to his arm and torso. He was released from hospital.
“This tragedy affects us all,” Supt. Brad Mueller said. “This event hits close to home.”
Wynn’s death comes on the heels of Kamloops’ December 3 shooting which left Cpl. Jean-Rene Michaud in hospital where he continues his recovery.
Mueller said it’s too early to tell when Michaud will be released from the Vancouver Hospital the officer was transferred to Dec. 23.
“Our emotions are still very raw from the incident involving (Michaud),” Mueller said.
Mueller said despite recent attacks on officers, it cannot lead to over-vigilance when making routine investigations. Wynn was following up on a stolen vehicle report, while Michaud conducted a traffic stop.
“These incidents are reminders of the inherent risks our officers face as they answer each and every call for service. The most routine investigations can turn in the blink of an eye,” Mueller said.
Drawing on experiences from his own career, Mueller commented on the unpredictability of the attacks.
“I’ve probably made that same stop 100 times,” he said.
Since the incident, the detachment has continued moving forward with appropriate training and an administrative review, Mueller said.
The administrative review conducted by the RCMP was ordered by headquarters in Vancouver. It will consider aspects of the criminal investigation into Michaud’s shooting and make recommendations. Mueller said a similar review took place in Moncton, NB after the RCMP shooting last year.
To contact the reporter for this story, email Glynn Brothen at gbrothen@infonews.ca or call 250-319-7494. To contact the editor, email mjones@infonews.ca or call 250-718-2724.
News from © iNFOnews, 2015