Man shot dead by Toronto police after schools locked down had pellet gun

A man shot dead by police after reports of a person with a rifle forced several schools into lockdown in Toronto Thursday in fact had a pellet gun, Ontario's police watchdog says.

The Special Investigations Unit (SIU) also says the man was 27.

Toronto Police Chief James Ramer said officers were called to the Port Union area of Scarborough around 1 p.m. for reports of a person with a gun.

He said officers were "confronted" by an individual, who he confirmed was dead.

Ramer declined to provide further details, citing an investigation by the SIU.

The SIU confirmed to CBC News Friday morning that a pellet gun was recovered at the scene.

SIU spokesperson Kristy Denette said preliminary details indicate two police officers fired their weapons at the suspect.

[link to www.cbc.ca (secure)]