Halton police shoot at Burlington man, 30, with anti-riot weapon and the SIU is investigating

The province's Special Investigations Unit (SIU) is investigating after a Halton Regional Police officer discharged an Anti-Riot Weapon Enfield (ARWEN) at a 30-year-old man Wednesday (April 13) in Burlington.

Halton police had said they were called to deal with a "person in crisis" Wednesday afternoon. As a result, there was a "heavy police presence" in the area.

The SIU, which investigates all cases involving police and civilians that result in death, serious injury or allegations of sexual assault to determine whether police should be charged, says a woman contacted 911 requesting that police check on the well-being of her son Wednesday.

Officers located the man in the area of New Street and Longmoor Drive, inside a shed on the property of a home, the SIU said.

Officers tried to speak with the man, but this was to no avail, the SIU said.

An "interaction" ensued and one officer discharged an ARWEN, (anti-riot weapon), described as a less-lethal launcher that fires 37 mm less-lethal rounds designed for riot control, at the man.

The man was apprehended and taken to hospital for assessment, the SIU said.

One SIU investigator and one forensic investigator have been assigned to the case.

At this time, three witness officials and one subject official have been designated, the SIU said.

The SIU's mandate was invoked because a police officer discharged an ARWEN, which is classified as a firearm. Under the Special Investigations Unit Act, "a firearm is defined as a barreled weapon from which any shot, bullet or other projectile can be discharged and that is capable of causing serious bodily injury or death to a person," the SIU said.

Halton police said in a tweet Wednesday no injuries were sustained.

The SIU is urging anyone who may have information about this investigation, including video or photos, to contact the lead investigator at 1-800-787-8529 or online at: https://siu.on.ca/en/appeals.php