SIU called in to investigate Markham police shooting

The Special Investigations Unit (SIU) has invoked its mandate in connection with a shooting incident that occurred last night in the Town of Markham.

On Monday, August 1, 2011, at approximately 11 p.m., police responded to an address on Cottonwood Court for unknown trouble at the residence. When they arrived on scene, officers discovered a female victim with injuries consistent with stab wounds. At the scene, responding officers approached a male suspect at which time an altercation ensued and shots were fired.

The 50-year-old male suspect and 47-year-old female victim both succumbed to their injuries at the scene.

The Special Investigations Unit has been notified and is conducting an investigation into the actions of police. The York Regional Police Homicide Unit is conducting an investigation into the woman’s death.

The SIU is an independent oversight agency that investigates reports involving police where there has been death, serious injury or allegations of sexual assault. Section 12 (2) of Regulation 673/98 of the Police Services Act states that members of a police force shall not, during the course of an investigation by the SIU, disclose to any person any information with respect to the incident or the investigation.