The highly anticipated trial of Nicholas Bellemare, accused of killing RCMP Const. Rick O'Brien during a 2023 drug raid in Coquitlam, began Monday with emotional testimony painting a vivid picture of the chaotic scene that claimed the life of the decorated officer.
Emotional Courtroom Testimony
In BC Supreme Court in Vancouver, the first witness—an RCMP officer who was part of the emergency response team—described the moment the raid turned deadly. The officer, whose identity is protected by a publication ban, testified about entering a residence on Trailer Avenue in Coquitlam on September 22, 2023, as part of a investigation into sexual assault allegations.
"We were there to execute a search warrant," the witness stated, his voice breaking at times. "The situation escalated rapidly."
The Fatal Encounter
Const. Rick O'Brien, a 51-year-old father of six and seven-year veteran of the Ridge Meadows detachment, was among the officers executing the warrant. The court heard that during what was supposed to be a "wellness check" and drug investigation, Bellemare allegedly engaged in a physical struggle with officers before producing a weapon.
"The accused was not compliant with police commands," the testifying officer recounted, describing how the situation quickly turned violent. Two other officers were shot and injured during the confrontation but survived their wounds.
Community and Family Impact
Const. O'Brien's death sent shockwaves through the law enforcement community and beyond. The veteran officer had received the Commissioner's Commendation for Bravery just days before his death for his role in rescuing a woman from a knife attack in 2019.
His family, including his wife and six children, have been present in the courtroom as the painful details of his final moments are revealed. The trial is expected to hear from multiple witnesses over the coming weeks, including forensic experts and additional police personnel.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Nicholas Bellemare faces multiple serious charges including:
- First-degree murder of Const. Rick O'Brien
- Attempted murder with a firearm against two other officers
- Assault of a police officer with a weapon
- Resisting arrest
The trial before Justice Anthony Saunders is scheduled to continue throughout the week, with Crown prosecutors expected to present extensive evidence about the events that unfolded during what began as a routine drug enforcement operation.
