An RCMP expert on lethal force has testified at an inquest in Saskatoon.

Melvin Bigsky was shot in the head and killed by an RCMP constable after a roadside altercation a year and a half ago.

The lawyer for the Bigsky family has suggested the constable had other options.

Ron Piche says Constable James Flack could have fired a warning shot, fired at Bigsky's arms and legs, or fired at the tires of Bigsky's vehicle.

The RCMP expert, Sergeant Sandy Ervin, testified none of those options would be safe or effective. Ervin says shooting to kill is a last resort.

"We don't want to be in a position where we have to make that decision. The unfortunate part of our job is that we're tasked with a mandate to keep the public peace and sometimes that is the result of us having to do our job and the public having a safe place to live," said Ervin.

The inquest is expected to wrap up Monday.