Gunman shot by police receives 41/2-year sentence

A man who attempted “suicide by cop” while brandishing a rifle in a busy intersection was handed a 41/2-year sentence in provincial court Thursday.

Glenn Justin Ironchild, 37, had earlier pleaded guilty to five charges related to the events on March 14, 2017, that led to him being shot by an Edmonton police officer.

Ironchild admitted to possession of a firearm without a licence, using a rifle in a careless manner, pointing a firearm, possession of a firearm while being prohibited from doing so, and possession of a multi-calibre rifle knowing its serial number had been altered.

Close to 100 calls to 911 were logged by people saying a man was standing in the intersection of 137 Avenue and 50 Street pointing a rifle at a number of vehicles, including two transit buses.

Two police officers arrived, and Ironchild pointed the gun at one and was looking through the scope at the officer in a “stable, low shooting ” position. The officer fired multiple shots at Ironchild, hitting him with the third round.

He then approached the downed suspect and kicked the rifle out of his reach.

Crown prosecutor Kevin Mark had previously argued Ironchild should be handed a six-year sentence while Ironchild’s lawyer, James Robertson, said four to 4 1/2 years was more fitting.

Court had previously heard Ironchild has already served more than 18 months in custody.