SIU probes after Durham officer and man shot during Oshawa mental-health call
Ontario’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating after a Durham Regional Police officer and a 27-year-old man were both shot during a mental-health call in Oshawa. Both are in stable condition.
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By Torontoer Staff
Ontario’s Special Investigations Unit has invoked its mandate after a Durham Regional Police officer and a 27-year-old man were shot during a mental-health call in Oshawa on Sunday morning. The agency says both people were taken to hospital and are now in stable condition.
The incident prompted a significant police presence in Oshawa’s south end and led to a multi-agency investigation into the circumstances surrounding the officer-involved shooting.
What happened
The SIU says Durham Regional Police attended a residence on Cedar Street at about 11 a.m. on Sunday for a mental-health call. Officers encountered a 27-year-old man who was armed with a knife, according to the SIU.
The SIU says one officer discharged their firearm multiple times during the interaction. The man and an officer were both struck and transported to hospital for treatment. The civilian oversight agency later said that it did not appear the man had a firearm.
Durham Regional Police earlier described the scene near Simcoe Street South and Wentworth Street East and advised of a significant police presence south of Highway 401. Officers were seen near a business at 744 Simcoe Street South while several blocks remained cordoned off as investigators worked the scene.
On-the-ground accounts
A witness who spoke to CTV News Toronto said they heard three loud pops. The witness described seeing an officer with his hands on his head shortly after the shots, and said they recorded part of the incident on video.
A cop was standing with his hands on his head like, 'What did I do?'. I even got it on film. He shot him right down here.
Witness who spoke to CTV News Toronto
Investigation and next steps
The SIU has assigned five investigators and two forensic investigators to examine the incident. The agency is the civilian oversight body that investigates when police actions result in death, serious injury, sexual assault, or the discharge of a firearm at a person.
Investigators are asking anyone with information, video, or photographs of the incident to contact the SIU lead investigator at 1-800-787-8529 or through the SIU website. Several blocks around the scene remain sealed while evidence is gathered and processed.
- Incident time: about 11 a.m. on Sunday, according to the SIU
- Location: SIU named a Cedar Street residence, DRPS referenced Simcoe Street South and Wentworth Street East
- SIU resources: five investigators, two forensic investigators assigned
- Contact for tips: SIU lead investigator, 1-800-787-8529 or the SIU online portal
Reaction from officials and unions
Oshawa MP Rhonda Kirkland posted on social media expressing support for the injured officer and their family, and emphasised community gratitude for police who face danger on the job.
My heart is with the Durham Regional Police officer who was critically injured today while protecting our community in Oshawa. I am holding their family, loved ones, and fellow DRPS officers close in my thoughts during this incredibly difficult moment.
Rhonda Kirkland, MP for Oshawa
The Police Association of Ontario and the Toronto Police Association posted messages offering support for the injured officer and their colleagues, and noting the risks officers face while responding to serious calls.
What the SIU does in officer-involved shootings
The SIU is an independent civilian agency that investigates when police actions result in serious harm or the discharge of a firearm at a person. Its mandate is to determine whether the conduct of police officers may have caused or contributed to the incident and whether criminal charges are warranted.
The agency’s process typically involves securing the scene, interviewing witnesses and involved officers, and conducting forensic examinations. Investigations can take weeks or months depending on the evidence and complexity.
What residents should know
Police cordons and road closures in the area are likely to remain while investigators process evidence. Anyone with video, photos, or relevant information is asked to contact the SIU. Residents seeking updates should watch for official releases from the SIU and Durham Regional Police Service.
The SIU investigation is ongoing. No charges have been announced and investigators have not yet released a full timeline of events. The office will provide further details as its work continues.
SIUOshawaDurham Regional Policepolice shootingpublic safety
