Warning: Details in this story may be distressing to some
An off-duty police officer is dead after a self-inflicted injury at a gun range in Langley.
The Independent Investigations Office (IIO) is investigating the death after RCMP were called for a man in distress at The Range Langley, an indoor shooting range in the 9900-block 201 Street in Langley, B.C.
"The man was identified as an off-duty member of the Surrey Police Service, sustained a serious injury that appears to have been self-inflicted while police were in the building," states the IIO.
The IIO confirms the man has since died.
Surrey Police Service (SPS) released a statement saying they must defer the investigation and details to the RCMP and the IIO.
"The incident regrettably resulted in the death of an off-duty SPS officer and appears to be self-inflicted," says media liaison Ian MacDonald.
The officer is not being named by police, but SPS confirms he was suspended with pay at the time of his death.
Police officers remain at the location on Wednesday evening. A Facebook post on The Range Langley states they will be closed for the rest of the day.
"The IIO has commenced an investigation, and initial investigative steps will seek to confirm what role, if any, police actions or inactions may have played in the death," states a spokesperson.
The SPS says it is working to support the officer's family and friends, including his work colleagues, during this difficult time.
"The officer was part of our organization and chose a career in law enforcement to assist others," says MacDonald.
Anyone with information is being asked to contact IIO's witness line toll-free at 1-855-446-8477 or via the contact form on their website.
If you or someone you know is experiencing thoughts of suicide, help is available.
- In an emergency, call 9-1-1
- In a crisis, call 1-800-784-2433
- In need of support, call 310-6789 (no area code needed)
You can find a full list of resources on the B.C. government’s website.
