Watchdog: Winnipeg Cop's Fatal Shot Justified

In May 2025, a Winnipeg police officer's use of lethal force was deemed reasonable by Manitoba's Independent Investigation Unit (IIU). The incident involved Dillon Warren Breed, 32, who was fatally shot after approaching officers aggressively. Police responded to a report of a man attempting to break into a house. Upon arrival, officers encountered Breed exiting a shed, armed with a screwdriver and a barbecue brush, exhibiting extreme agitation and incoherent yelling.

Despite officers' commands to drop the weapons, Breed advanced. A Taser deployed by one officer proved ineffective. Breed then discarded the screwdriver but continued his approach with the barbecue brush. When he was approximately one meter away, the second officer discharged his firearm three times, leading to Breed's collapse. The IIU's investigation, which included witness interviews and expert reviews, concluded that the officer's decision to use lethal force was justified given the circumstances and Breed's persistent aggressive actions.