An officer in Delta has been charged with second degree murder following an incident that occurred at the Starlight Casino in New Westminster in November of 2012.
On November 8th, 2012 the Municipal Integrated Emergency Response team was dealing with an incident at the Casino, and Constable Jordan MacWilliams “discharged his firearm in response to the armed suspect.” The suspect involved in the incident, Mehrdad Bayrami of Richmond was wounded and died in hospital. The Independent Investigations Office was called to investigate the incident and in July, 2013 forwarded its report to Crown Council.
Photo Credit: Delta Police
On Monday, in New Westminster, Delta Police officer Cst MacWilliams was formally charged with second degree murder in relation to the incident.
Chief Cessford states, “I respect and understand the roles of Crown Counsel and the Independent Investigations Office. This incident occurred almost two years ago and, given the independent nature of the investigation, I have limited knowledge of the details regarding this matter. Also, considering the fact that this matter is now before the courts I am not in a position to make any comment relative to the charges against Cst. MacWilliams.”
Police were called to the casino after reports of shots fired and Bayrami was found in the parking lot, appearing distraught. This led to a standoff with police and Bayrami was shot with both plastic bullets and at least one round from an assault rifle.
MacWilliams will appear in court again on December 18th, 2014.
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