Alberta RCMP Officers Not Charged in Fatal Shooting of Teen
An investigation by the Alberta Serious Response Incident Team (ASIRT) found that RCMP officers fired up to 17 times at a 15-year-old Indigenous boy, Hoss Lightning, as he approached them in a field. He was holding his arm raised inside a backpack, which made it appear as if he was pointing a gun.
Hoss Lightning, a member of the Samson Cree Nation from Maskwacis, near Wetaskiwin, Alberta, was fatally shot early in the morning of August. Despite earlier handing a machete and knife to one of the officers, no firearms were found on him. He died from a gunshot wound to the chest.
Investigation Findings
The police watchdog concluded that the officers' actions were not criminal and that the use of force was justifiable under the circumstances. Acting ASIRT executive director Matthew Block stated:
“While these events are tragic, that does not make them criminal. The officers could reasonably argue that the use of force was necessary to defend themselves.”
Community Impact
The shooting deeply affected the Samson Cree Nation community and sparked calls for a national inquiry into deaths of Indigenous people involving police.
Key Facts
- Victim: Hoss Lightning, 15 years old, Indigenous, Samson Cree Nation member.
- Location: Wetaskiwin, Alberta, near Maskwacis.
- Incident: Teen approached RCMP officers with arm raised inside a backpack, appearing to point a gun.
- Shots fired: Up to 17 by the RCMP officers.
- No firearms found on the teen, only a machete and a knife surrendered.
- Outcome: No criminal charges against the officers.
Lightning’s death remains one of several tragic Indigenous deaths linked to police encounters in Canada, highlighting ongoing concerns in affected communities.
Summary: The investigation cleared Alberta RCMP officers of criminal wrongdoing in the fatal shooting of Indigenous teenager Hoss Lightning, emphasizing self-defense amid tragic circumstances.