British Columbia

Jordan MacWilliams, Delta police officer, charged with murder for 2012 Starlight Casino shooting

Delta police officer Jordan MacWilliams has been charged with second-degree murder for the death of Mehrdad Bayrami, two years ago outside the Starlight Casino in New Westminster, B.C.

Police officer Jordan MacWilliams is accused of 2nd degree murder in standoff shooting outside casino

Delta officer charged with 2nd-degree murder

10 years ago
Duration 2:19
Jordan MacWilliams, 27, charged in 2012 death of Mehrdad Bayrami outside New Westminster's Stalight Casino

Delta police officer Jordan MacWilliams has been charged with second-degree murder for the death of Mehrdad Bayrami, two years ago outside the Starlight Casino in New Westminster, B.C.

The charge follows an investigation by the Independent Investigations Office, which took over the case after the shooting of Bayrami on a paved pathway outside the casino on Nov. 8, 2012.

The IIO completed its investigation, and forwarded a report to Crown counsel in July of 2013, but the Criminal Justice Branch asked for more information.

On Nov. 8 in 2012, police were called to the area around the Starlight Casino in New Westminster following reports of a man with a gun in the parking lot. (Shane MacKichan/CBC)

On Nov. 8 in 2012, police were called to the Starlight Casino following reports of a man with a gun in the parking lot. There was lengthy standoff, and police could be heard imploring Bayrami to drop his weapon.

After a period of roughly five hours, Bayrami was shot. At the time, police refused to say whether an officer shot Bayrami.

MacWilliams has already made his first appearance in court, has been released on bail and will next appear in court in New Westminster on Dec. 18.

Delta Police Chief Jim Cessford said MacWilliams is now on paid administrative leave.