ST. JOHN'S, N.L. — Grieving family members of a Newfoundland man shot dead by an officer investigating perceived threats against the premier are asking for privacy as they wait for more details from police.
"Our hearts are broken as a result of the tragic and untimely death of our father and brother," says a statement released Wednesday by the family of Don Dunphy.
The 59-year-old was killed by a member of the premier's security team Sunday after he went alone to Dunphy's home to investigate comments posted on Twitter.
The plainclothes officer with the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary has not been named as the RCMP investigate the shooting in Mitchells Brook, about 80 kilometres southwest of St. John's.
RCMP Sgt. Greg Hicks said Tuesday the officer reported he was invited in, but the mood changed after about 15 minutes and Dunphy aimed a rifle at him.
The Mounties say a loaded .22-calibre rifle was found beside Dunphy's body and will be examined at a forensics lab.
A spokesman for the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary said its members are not equipped with vehicle or body cameras.
Hicks said an autopsy was done Tuesday but results have not been released.
