Alberta RCMP conclude investigation into in-custody death

October 16, 2026 - Yellowknife, Northwest Territories
From: Northwest Territories RCMP

Content

The Alberta RCMP has concluded an investigation into an in-custody death that occurred in Yellowknife on March 12, 2025, and has laid charges against two RCMP members.

On March 12, 2025, at approximately 4 p.m., the Yellowknife RCMP responded to a report of a 56-year-old man disturbing the peace at a business on 50th Street in Yellowknife.

When police arrived at the location, they located the man, who was showing signs of intoxication. The man was taken into police custody in a police vehicle for investigational purposes while RCMP members were gathering more information on site.

Upon return to the vehicle, the officers noticed that the male was unresponsive. Life-saving measures were immediately performed and EMS contacted. Despite all attempts to revive him, Lawrence Blackduck, from Yellowknife, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Upon reviewing the circumstances, G Division RCMP acted quickly and requested that an external investigation be conducted, as it is common practice when an in-custody death occurs. Alberta RCMP’s Major Crimes Unit was assigned to the file.

As a result of this investigation, both RCMP officers have been arrested and charged with:

• Causing death by criminal negligence, contrary to section 220 of the Criminal Code
• Failing to provide the necessities of life, contrary to section 215(1)(c) of the Criminal Code

Both officers will be suspended from duty immediately and are scheduled to appear in Territorial Court on November 24, 2026.

At the request of the RCMP G Division Commanding Officer, the RCMP's Indigenous, Provincial, Territorial and Municipal Policing (IPTMP) National Criminal Operations unit conducted an Independent Officer Review (IOR) to identify any gaps in policy, training, or procedures. An IOR is an administrative review of an incident that seeks to identify opportunities for improvement.

As a result of the review, amendments were made to national policy and the RCMP Depot training curriculum related to in-vehicle detention to address the gaps identified.

Quotes

“We are deeply saddened that a man lost his life while in police custody, and extend our sincere condolences to the family, friends and community of Mr. Blackduck.” 

“Any allegations of wrongdoing are fully investigated in the interest of transparency and the maintenance of public trust and confidence. The G Division RCMP recognizes that this incident is deeply troubling and that public trust has been shaken. We remain committed to transparency and to being an accountable policing service provider to our communities, our partners and our residents.”

“This is a difficult day for our organization and the communities we serve. We recognize the seriousness of this incident and remain committed to transparency, accountability and maintaining public trust and confidence.”

Chief Superintendent Dyson Smith. G Division RCMP Commanding Officer

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