SHUBENACADIE: The Nova Scotia RCMP released more information on the encounter between a gunman that terrorized several N.S. communities on April 18-19 and Const. Heidi Stevenson adjacent to Rex McCoul Park in Shubenacadie.
At their press conference on June 4, Supt. Darren Campbell gave an update on the investigation into Operation H-Strong. Part of that update included relaying information they know of the interaction between the gunman, who killed 21 and Const. Stevenson, before police shot him dead at the Irving Big Stop in Enfield.
“Much speculation and many assumptions have been made publicly related to the reporting of the contact and interaction between Const. Heidi Stevenson and the gunman,” said Supt. Campbell. “As I had previously pointed out, thorough and complete investigations take time and they rightfully include the involvement of several specialized resources in order to piece together the facts.”
Const. Stevenson and Const. Chad Morrison, who had been shot just moments before the gunman and Const. Stevenson’s encounter, were both wearing soft and hard body armour.
Supt. Campbell told the media and those watching the live stream of the press conference that while the RCMP have not completed this component of the overall investigation, he was able to share some details based on the following evidence.
“While Const. Stevenson’s and the gunman’s vehicles collided, we do not believe that Const. Stevenson rammed the gunman’s vehicle,” he said. “We can also tell you that the gunman’s vehicle sustained more damage than Const. Stevenson’s police vehicle, that she bravely engaged the gunman, and that there was an exchange of gunfire between Const. Stevenson and the gunman.”
Besides Const. Stevenson, a passerby that stopped to help, Joey Webber, was shot and killed by the gunman, before the gunman travelled down the road in Webber’s vehicle a short bit to Gina Goulet’s. There he shot and killed her, taking her vehicle.
The rampage came to an end as the gunman filled up for gas and was recognized by an officer who also was filling up. Our overall response to the incidents on April 18 and 19 is subject to several reviews or independent investigations.
Chief Supt. Chris Leather, the Criminal Operations Officer, said police are cooperating with the multiple reviews and investigations related to the April 18-19 shootings.
“There are discussions underway to determine the best approach regarding a formal comprehensive review,” said Chief Supt. Leather. “We welcome the opportunity to provide our information and what we know.
“We will continue to fully participate in the multiple investigations, processes or reviews that are underway.
“While we need to respect these processes and will limit our comments accordingly, we will continue to find that balance, and release or share the information that can be shared where possible.”
