A Hamilton police officer is in critical condition and not expected to survive after reportedly shooting himself inside a downtown police station.
UPDATE: Hamilton police confirm the officer, identified as Sgt. Ian Matthews, died Tuesday night. He was a 25-year veteran of the force.
The Hamilton Spectator reported the incident occurred inside the locker room at the division’s central King William Street branch.
Police confirmed the incident occurred around 1 p.m., a news release stated on Tuesday.
“This is devastating and I recognize the profound impact this has on our organization,” said police chief Glenn De Caire. "We are supporting Ian's family during this tragic time."
Counselling through the Critical Incident Response Team is being offered to staff members.
No motive or additional comment about the incident will be provided by officers or the chief, the release also stated.
Halton Regional Police have been assigned to launch a non-criminal investigation.