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Don Dunphy's family want inquiry after investigation: lawyer Erin Breen

The lawyer representing the family of Don Dunphy, who was shot and killed at his home by a member of Premier Paul Davis's security detail Easter weekend, says an inquiry into the incident will be sought, but only after the RCMP investigation is completed.
Lawyer Erin Breen says the family of Don Dunphy, who was fatally shot by a police officer on Easter weekend, will want a public inquiry into his death, but only once the RCMP investigation is completed. (CBC)

The lawyer representing the family of Don Dunphy, who was shot and killed at his home by a member of Premier Paul Davis's security detail Easter weekend, says an inquiry into the incident will be sought, but only after the RCMP investigation is completed.

Dunphy was shot by the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary (RNC) officer who was visiting Dunphy at his home in Mitchells Brook, a small community about 85 kilometres from St. John's, to investigate a perceived threat made on Twitter.

RCMP, who police the rural area where the shooting happened, are conducting an investigation.
Don Dunphy was fatally shot at his home on April 5 by a member of Premier Paul Davis's security detail, who was at Dunphy's home investigating a perceived threat made on Twitter. (CBC)

Lawyer Erin Breen, who represents Dunphy's family, told CBC News the family does want to see an inquiry, but only after the RCMP wrap up their investigation into the fatal shooting.

"I can say that for certain they do want to see an inquiry of some kind after they have their answers, but we have all agreed that certainly it must only take place after the investigation — criminal investigation — ends," said Breen, in an interview to be carried on CBC's On Point Saturday night.

According to Breen, the family will wait to see what the outcome of the RCMP investigation is before determining what issues they want addressed in a public inquiry.

"We certainly think that the collection of evidence, the analysis of evidence and the interpretation, conclusions that come from that evidence must take place first," she said.

"As well, before we even consider what are the terms of reference of an inquiry like this, those things all have to take place."

The RCMP announced earlier this month retired Supreme Court justice David Rich will serve as an "independent observer" and will provide an independent report on the thoroughness of the investigation.