The Alberta Serious Incident Response Team (ASIRT) has confirmed that a woman shot by a Calgary Police Service member on Deerfoot Trail on June 21, 2026, was in possession of a knife at the time of the confrontation. The shooting occurred during a police intervention on the busy highway, prompting an immediate investigation by the province's police oversight body.
Details of the Incident
According to ASIRT, the confrontation took place on Deerfoot Trail, a major Calgary thoroughfare, when officers responded to a call. During the encounter, a Calgary police officer discharged their firearm, striking the woman. She was transported to hospital with injuries that were not life-threatening, according to initial reports. ASIRT did not disclose the specific circumstances that led to the officer using deadly force, but emphasized that the woman was armed with a knife.
ASIRT's investigation will focus on whether the officer's actions were justified under Alberta law, which permits the use of force when an officer reasonably believes it is necessary to protect life or prevent serious harm. The oversight body has not released the officer's name or the woman's identity, citing the ongoing investigation.
ASIRT's Role and Next Steps
ASIRT is mandated to investigate all serious incidents involving police in Alberta, including shootings, to ensure transparency and accountability. The team will gather evidence, interview witnesses, and review police policies and training. A report will be submitted to the Alberta Crown Prosecution Service, which will determine if charges are warranted.
Calgary Police Service has not commented on the incident, deferring to ASIRT. The shooting has raised questions about police use of force and de-escalation tactics, particularly in high-traffic areas like Deerfoot Trail, where bystanders and motorists may be at risk.
This is the second officer-involved shooting in Calgary in 2026. In March, a suspect was wounded after allegedly brandishing a weapon during a domestic disturbance call. ASIRT cleared that officer of wrongdoing, ruling the shooting was lawful.
