ON Wednesday, November 18, Richmond RCMP officers responded to two officers in need of assistance.  When the additional officers arrived on scene, they encountered a dog that lunged at them and ultimately an officer had to discharge their firearm. The dog has died as a result.

At approximately 6:40 p.m., frontline officers responded to an alleged break-and-enter in progress. Two officers encountered the suspect who allegedly fought with them as they attempted to arrest him.  As the situation escalated, the responding officers called for additional backup.

Several more officers arrived in the building to provide support to the two officers. As the officers entered the building they encountered a person with a large dog. The individual lost control of the dog which cornered the officers in a confined space and bit two of them.  An officer was ultimately forced to shoot the dog as it continued to attack them.

“This was a terribly unfortunate incident for all involved,” said Constable Kenneth Lau. “Police officers often have to make a split second decision between being potentially seriously injured or protecting the safety of themselves, their fellow officers or the public.”

Fortunately, backup officers were able to get to the original two responding officers which resulted in the safe arrest of the suspect.

A 40-year-old man of no fixed address is expected to appear in Richmond Provincial Court on February 24, 2021, to answer to charges of break and enter.

Richmond RCMP said they recognize this is a difficult situation and will provide support to everyone involved.