UPDATE- RCMP make arrest in Attempted Murder of Manitoba First Nations Police officer

May 30, 2019
Waywayseecappo First Nation, Manitoba

News release

On May 31, 2019, Matthew Benn, 21, of Waywayseecappo First Nation was arrested and charged with Attempted Murder in relation to the stabbing of a 29-year-old Manitoba First Nations Police officer that occurred on May 30, 2019.

He remains in custody.

RCMP continue to investigate.


On May 29, 2019, at approximately 10:45 pm, an officer with the Manitoba First Nations Police Service responded to a disturbance at the gaming centre in Waywayseecappo First Nation.

While in the parking lot of the gaming centre, an altercation occurred between the officer and several suspects. During this altercation, the police officer was stabbed multiple times. The officer discharged his weapon, striking one of the suspects. Numerous MFNPS and RCMP officers immediately responded to the scene to assist.

A 21-year-old male is currently in hospital with a gunshot wound. He is in serious but stable condition.

The police officer was treated in hospital for serious injuries and has since been released. He is a 29-year-old male with seven years of service with MFNPS.

"This is an extremely difficult day for our police service and all police officers across the province. Our thoughts are with the officer and his family," said Chief Rick Head of Manitoba First Nations Police Services. "It's a reminder of the very real dangers that our officers face on a daily basis."

Manitoba RCMP is now investigating the stabbing of the officer as per the Provincial Police Services Act. Numerous resources have been deployed, including officers from multiple detachments, Forensic Identification Services, and Major Crimes Services. Officers remain on scene and the investigation is ongoing.

The Independent Investigation Unit of Manitoba has initiated an investigation into the officer-involved shooting.

–30–

Contact information

Cpl. Julie Courchaine, Media Relations Officer
RCMP Media Relations
204-983-8497
Media.Relations.RCMP.Manitoba@rcmp-grc.gc.ca

www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/mb
Twitter @rcmpmb | @GRCManitoba
http://www.facebook.com/rcmpmb | https://www.facebook.com/GRCManitoba

File number: 2019756765

Date modified: