SiRT was contacted by the West District RCMP on November 15, 2025 regarding an incident in St. Stephen, New Brunswick. Two officers attempted to arrest an adult male who was wanted on outstanding warrants. He fled and entered the St. Croix River and did not resurface.

The SiRT Director has reviewed all available information in detail, including police files, body worn camera and video footage from local businesses. The officers approached the male as they had grounds to arrest him on outstanding warrants. He immediately fled on foot and entered the water, swimming away from shore. Officers called for him to return to shore, and when he didn’t return Emergency Medical Services and the Fire Department Rescue team were immediately dispatched.

The evidence is clear that the actions of the officers did not result in the death of the male, and it was not foreseeable that the male would enter the water.  Therefore, it has been determined that this case does not meet SiRT’s mandate for an investigation.

This is a tragic situation and SiRT offers our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of the male.

Media Contact

Khalehla Perrault
Manager of Communications & Special Projects
Email: Khalehla.Perrault@novascotia.ca