Alberta RCMP Officers Cleared in Fatal Shooting of Teenager
An investigation by the Alberta Serious Response Incident Team (ASIRT) found that RCMP officers fired up to 17 shots at a 15-year-old Indigenous boy who approached them in a field, holding his arm up inside a backpack in a way that made it appear he was aiming a gun.
The incident occurred early morning in Wetaskiwin, Alberta. The teen, identified by family as Hoss Lightning, was a member of the Samson Cree Nation from Maskwacis, located less than 20 kilometres south of Wetaskiwin.
Lightning died from a gunshot wound to the chest. Although he had handed over a machete and knife to an officer prior to the shooting, no firearms were found on him.
“While these events are tragic, that does not make them criminal,” wrote Matthew Block, acting ASIRT executive director, emphasizing that under the circumstances the officers reasonably believed the use of force was necessary to protect themselves.
The fatal shooting deeply affected the local Indigenous community and was among several police-related deaths of Indigenous people that fueled calls for a national inquiry.
Investigation Findings
- The 15-year-old teen approached officers with his arm raised, concealed in a backpack, suggesting he was pointing a weapon.
- RCMP fired multiple shots — up to 17 — as a defensive response.
- No guns were found on the teenager at the scene.
Community Impact
Hoss Lightning’s death resonated strongly across his community in Maskwacis and beyond, highlighting ongoing tensions and controversies regarding police interactions with Indigenous peoples in Canada.
Official Conclusion
The police watchdog determined the shooting was not criminal, clearing the two officers involved of any charges related to the incident.
Author’s summary: The official inquiry ruled the RCMP’s fatal shooting of Indigenous teen Hoss Lightning justified, sparking ongoing concern over police use of force in Indigenous communities.