The trial of Nicholas Bellemare continues as the court reviews security footage linked to the fatal shooting of RCMP Const. Rick O’Brien in Coquitlam.
Trial Shows Video from Moments Around Mountie’s Fatal Shooting
Courtroom Focus on Video Evidence
A B.C. Supreme Court judge viewed security footage Tuesday showing the moments before and after RCMP Const. Rick O’Brien was fatally shot during a police operation in Coquitlam. The trial of Nicholas Bellemare, charged with first-degree murder in O’Brien’s death, entered its second day in New Westminster. Bellemare is also accused of attempting to murder Cpl. Colin Ryder during the same Sept. 22, 2023 incident.
Charges and Case Background
Bellemare is alleged to have opened fire with an AR-15 rifle when a team of officers entered a 22nd-floor apartment to execute a search warrant related to a drug investigation. O’Brien, part of the Ridge Meadows RCMP detachment, was the first officer through the door when the shooting occurred, according to testimony already presented. Ryder was also struck by gunfire but survived.
Footage from the Scene
The court saw video of five officers entering the apartment building, taking an elevator, and preparing to carry out the warrant. While there was no video capturing the gunfire itself, footage showed officers pulling O’Brien back into the elevator and rushing him to paramedics waiting in the lobby. He appeared unresponsive. Minutes later, video showed Bellemare being escorted into the elevator wearing only underwear and handcuffs, appearing compliant.
Emotional Moments in Court
O’Brien’s wife, Nicole Longacre-O’Brien, observed the proceedings from the gallery, supported by relatives. The playback of footage capturing O’Brien’s final moments drew quiet emotion in the courtroom. Some attendees consoled one another as the images were shown without accompanying audio.
Police Search After the Shooting
Sgt. Chase Smith of the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team presented the video compilation, while further testimony came from Cpl. Paul Carey, a police dog handler with the Lower Mainland Emergency Response Team. Carey described clearing the apartment amid uncertainty over whether additional suspects were inside. His police dog indicated evidence in a closet where officers later discovered a spent casing, ammunition, firearms, and significant quantities of drugs. No other suspects were found.
Trial Continues
Bellemare was taken to Royal Columbian Hospital following the incident to have a bullet removed from his arm. The trial is scheduled to run approximately seven weeks, with further testimony expected regarding the search warrant operation, the shooting, and Bellemare’s arrest.
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