Man recovering in hospital after being shot by Calgary police

A man is recovering in hospital after being shot by police in Calgary’s southeast early Friday morning.

Around 12:15 a.m., officers were patrolling the area of Deerfoot and 17 Avenue SE, when they came across a vehicle. The passenger appeared to point what officers thought was a handgun at them.

HAWCS, the Canine Unit, and other officers were brought in and a traffic stop was initiated near Spiller Road and 25 Avenue SE.

One man fled from the vehicle and there was a confrontation with officers, according to police.

An officer then discharged their service weapon.

The man was taken to hospital in life-threatening condition where he’s since been upgraded to life-altering, but stable condition.

Two other people who were in the vehicle were arrested without incident.

Police say the Alberta Serious Incident Response Team (ASIRT) is investigating the incident.

In a video posted to social media, new Calgary police Chief Katie McLellan, says officers are committed to upholding public safety.

“We want you to know that our officers are committed to protecting you. They are out there in the dead of night and the light of day looking for suspicious people and behaviour who pose a danger to you,” she said. “We trust in their training, experience, and ability to make very quick decisions in difficult circumstances without the gift of hindsight.”