News Release

News Release

SIU Concludes Investigation into Man Fatally Shot by OPP Near Kenora

Case Number: 26-PFD-112   

Other News Releases Related to Case 26-PFD-112

SIU Investigating Man Fatally Shot by OPP Near Kenora

Mississauga, ON (7 July, 2026) ---
The Director of the Special Investigations Unit, Joseph Martino, found no reasonable grounds to believe Ontario Provincial Police officers committed a criminal offence in connection with the fatal shooting of a 39-year-old man north of Kenora. On March 9, 2026, officers were called to Ena Lake by the man who was in distress and threatening to kill officers.

Director Martino was satisfied that the gunfire constituted reasonable force. Regrettably, the man could not be calmed and exited from his cabin with a two-handed grip on a sledgehammer, which the officers could only have interpreted as the man attempting to make good on his threats. Less-lethal force was tried by two officers as the man approached but it had no effect; the man continued to advance and had neared to within striking range. Director Martino concluded that the immediate stopping power of a firearm was required. 

Full Director’s Report (with Incident Narrative, Evidence, and Analysis & Director’s Decision): 

If you or someone you know has been negatively affected by an incident under SIU investigation and would like support, the Affected Persons Program is here to help. You can reach us at 1-877-641-1897. Support is free, confidential, and available 24/7, every day of the year.

The SIU is an independent government agency that investigates the conduct of officials (municipal, regional and provincial police officers, police officers with the Nishnawbe Aski Police Service, special constables with the Niagara Parks Commission and peace officers with the Legislative Protective Service) that may have resulted in death, serious injury, sexual assault and/or the discharge of a firearm at a person. All investigations are conducted by SIU investigators who are civilians. Under the Special Investigations Unit Act, the Director of the SIU must

  • consider whether the official has committed a criminal offence in connection with the incident under investigation
  • depending on the evidence, cause a criminal charge to be laid against the official where grounds exist for doing so, or close the file without any charges being laid
  • publicly report the results of its investigations

Lisez ce communiqué en français.

Monica Hudon, siu.media@ontario.ca
SIU Communications/Service des communications, UES