An independent B.C. police watchdog agency has determined that shots fired by police killed both a hostage-taker and his hostage during a confrontation in Surrey two months ago.

The Independent Investigations Office (IIO) of B.C. stated in a news release issued today (May 2) that it is continuing its investigation into an officer-related shooting in Surrey during a hostage-taking situation that developed in March.

A standoff began around 9:30 p.m. on March 28 involving a man with a gun and a female hostage at a residence in the 13300 block of 98A Avenue. The identities of the two individuals have not been released by the RCMP or the IIO.

Residents were evacuated and the area was contained. After 10 hours had passed, officers entered a residence on 133^rd Street in Surrey around 7:25 a.m. on March 29.

After an interaction between police and a male suspect, shots were fired, according to the IIO.

The male was pronounced dead at that scene while a female was taken to hospital but later died from her injuries. No police officers or members of the public were injured.

For the investigation into this case, the IIO has conducted over 40 interviews with officers and civilians who witnessed the incident, in addition to forensic work.

Based on the evidence gathered thus far, the IIO stated that they have concluded that the male and female both died of injuries sustained as a result of gunfire from the police.

The IIO investigation remains ongoing to determine if the police actions were lawful and within reason or if any offence may have been committed.

Any witnesses who have not yet spoken with the IIO is asked to call the IIO BC witness line at 1-855-446-8477.