September 22, 2023
Gunshot
RCMP Ridge Meadows
On September 22, 2023 at approximately 10:00 AM, Ridge Meadows RCMP Constable Rick O’Brien was shot and killed while executing a search warrant on a residence in Coquitlam, BC.
Constable Rick O’Brien, 51 years old, along with a number of other RCMP officers, were executing a search warrant on a condo complex near the intersection of Pine Tree Way and Glen Drive in Coquitlam, BC. While at the scene, the officers became engaged in an altercation with a male which resulted in shots being fired with multiple officers being injured. The officers returned fire, injuring the suspect. Constable O’Brien was one of the shot officers, succumbing to his injuries at the scene. The injured officers and the suspect were transported by Emergency Health Services to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The suspect was charged with first degree murder.
Constable O’Brien was born and raised in Ottawa, joining the RCMP in 2016 after a career as an education assistant and working with at-risk youth. All of his service with the RCMP was with the Ridge Meadows detachment as a front-line officer. He was a decorated for bravery in the rescue of victims during a home invasion.
Constable O’Brien was married and had six children. Our condolences go out to his wife and children, family, friends and colleagues. He will be remembered.