Inquest called into the death of Castleton man in April 2021
Photo by Dan Jones, Northumberland 89.7 FM, LJI
An inquest has been called into the death of a man following an OPP shooting near Castleton in April of 2021.
“Dr. Armita Rahmani, Regional Supervising Coroner, East Region, Kingston Office, has announced that an inquest will be held into the death of Dominik Martorino. Mr. Martorino, 43 years old, died on April 6, 2021, following an interaction with officers from the Ontario Provincial Police. An inquest into his death is mandatory under the Coroners Act,” stated a press release from the provincial government.
The Special Investigations Unit examined the circumstances of the shooting incident, clearing both officers of any wrongdoing.
Martorino was shot and killed by provincial police officers on April 6, on County Road 25 near Bonnet Road following a complaint that he was driving erratically.
SIU Director Joseph Martino said that Martorino advanced on officers with a baseball bat, striking a police cruiser windshield. During the incident, it's alleged that Martorino drove his pick up truck towards officers, who took evasive action to avoid a collision.
Officers eventually rammed the truck, and with Martorino attempting to exit through the passenger side of the truck, police discharged their weapons, striking him five times. Martorino died at the scene.
The SIU report noted that Martorino “was of unsound mind at the time of these unfortunate events, the result of mental illness. Though the officers appear to have been aware of this fact, it does not appear that there was ever a real opportunity to bring mental health interventions to bear, were they available, given how quickly events escalated.” The SUI concluded the use of force was justified.
“The inquest will examine the circumstances surrounding Mr. Martorino’s death. The jury may make recommendations aimed at preventing further deaths. Further details regarding the inquest, including the date and venue, will be provided at a later date,” stated the province.
