Media Update - Investigation into the shooting death of RCMP Cst Douglas Scott

Iqaluit, NU — November 8, 2007 — The investigation into the shooting death of RCMP Cst Douglas Scott is nearing the completion of its first phase. Investigative teams on the ground in Kimmirut have gathered physical evidence and conducted interviews with witnesses in the community.

Over the next two days RCMP presence in Kimmirut will return to normal levels.

A relief sergeant and constable have been assigned to take up the policing duties for Kimmirut.

The next phase of the investigation will consist in analyzing this material and preparing a report to the Crown in relation to the charge of first degree murder that was laid.

A hearing for bail for the accused will take place tomorrow morning in Iqaluit.

The RCMP will be providing support to the investigation by Human Resources and Social Development Canada (HRSDC) into the incident. This process is standard procedure when a member of the RCMP is injured or killed in the line of duty.

The remains of Cst Scott were flown by RCMP aircraft to Iqaluit Wednesday afternoon for transport to Toronto today for forensic analysis by the medical examiner there.

On Wednesday evening at the RCMP hangar in Iqaluit, more than 100 RCMP colleagues of Cst Scott gathered with their spouses and children for a farewell candlelight vigil. They stood around the open door of the RCMP plane, where they could see the flag-draped casket, and recited the RCMP prayer with chaplain Bob Harper of Alberta’s "K" Division.

C/Supt. Marty Cheliak, Commanding Officer of "V" Division remarked on the positive impact Cst. Scott had made in his short time in Nunavut. He also thanked his staff for their extraordinary efforts, and the families for their support, despite the personal toll that a traumatic event of this nature can take.

RCMP Member Employee Assistance Program (MEAP) personnel will remain available to support RCMP employees and their families. The RCMP thanks the Elders and the people of Kimmirut and Iqaluit for their support during this time of tragedy.

Preparations are under way, in consultation with the Scott family, for the regimental funeral to take place November 13 in Brockville, ON. Additional details are available on the RCMP website, where updates will be posted regularly.

"V" Division Media Relations
(867) 975-4422.