There will be no criminal charges resulting from an incident in downtown Regina yesterday morning (October 29th). What began as a domestic disturbance grew into an emergency services call, as officers feared there had been shots fired in a domestic conflict, inside an apartment. Even though neither the male nor female participant will face criminal charges, the incident stands as a reminder of the seriousness of any call for service involving domestic conflict, and (potentially) firearms.
Police were called to an apartment building in the 1800 block of Halifax at approximately 4:30 a.m. on Thursday, October 29, 2020. The preliminary information indicated a male and a female were in a heated argument, possibly an assault, in one of the apartments. As police officers responded there was the sound of possible gunshots, and then no voices. The officers immediately requested additional units to set up a safety perimeter and tried to make contact with the occupants of the apartment. Continual risk assessment led to authorization for Emergency teams to be called to the scene: Crisis Negotiators, Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) and Canine. Only then did the occupants of the apartment come out to be interviewed by police. After investigation, it was determined the “gunshot” sounds were likely caused by pieces of lumber (2x4s and plywood) that fell, or were knocked over, in the argument between the male and female. As a result of further investigation, there was no evidence to support criminal charges against either person from the apartment.
This matter is now concluded. The Regina Police Service recognizes the alarm and inconvenience caused to members of the public; however, the police response was appropriate for the known circumstances at the time. We always strive for a safe outcome. Thank you to the public for your cooperation, support, and patience.
