SIRT CLEARS MOUNTIES IN SUSPECT’S SHOOTING

SIRT investigation concludes in shooting of homicide suspect

The province’s independent Serious Incident Response Team (SIRT) has released a report regarding the investigation into the shooting and arrest of a Colchester area man.

Shortly before midnight on Sept. 17, 2017, Colchester District RCMP was investigating a homicide in Bayhead. Members of the RCMP engaged a vehicle in the area which they suspected of being operated by a person sought in connection with the homicide investigation.

The driver failed to stop for RCMP and a pursuit ended when the driver went into Lockerbie Memorial Cemetery, Highway 6, Tatamagouche and took up a position at the edge of the property.

Officers spoke with the individual for several hours in an attempt to have him surrender. However, shortly before 7 a.m., gunfire was exchanged, and the suspect was wounded by the RCMP officers.

The report says SIRT investigation has led to the conclusion there are no grounds to pursue charges against any of the officers involved.

It went on to say, since the initial investigation into the homicide is before the courts and in accordance with SIRT policy, the report would not discuss further facts of the matter, since it could compromise the interests of a fair trial for the accused.

Ernest (Junior) Ross Duggan of Bayhead is charged with first-degree murder in the Sept. 17 death of Susan Butlin.

SIRT regulations under the Police Act state the director may choose to provide a supplemental summary of the investigation at the conclusion of prosecution.

SIRT is responsible for investigating all serious incidents involving police in Nova Scotia. Investigations are under the direction and control of independent civilian interim director Felix Cacchione, who is solely responsible for decisions respecting the laying of any charge.