IIO Concludes Investigation into a Death in Dawson Creek (2022-023)
Case: 2022-023 Incident Date: February 15, 2022 Detachment: BC Highway Patrol Location: Dawson Creek Agency: RCMP Incident Classification: Death Case Status: Closed - Without Public ReportINFORMATION BULLETIN
Independent Investigations Office
For Immediate Release
Surrey, B.C. – The Independent Investigations Office (IIO) of BC has concluded an investigation into a death in Dawson Creek.
As detailed in the previous release, at approximately 11:00 a.m. on February 15, 2022, members of the BC Highway Patrol with the RCMP conducted a traffic stop of a Ford Escape near Highway 97 and 283 Road. The male driver was found to have an outstanding warrant and was asked to exit the vehicle.
Dashcam footage from a police vehicle shows the man speaking to an officer at the rear of the Escape when he goes into medical distress. At no time is any force used against the man by police.
Medical assistance was provided immediately at the roadside, and Emergency Health Services (EHS) were called. EHS transported the man to a local hospital, where he was subsequently pronounced deceased.
The Chief Civilian Director has reviewed the evidence – including video footage, medical records, and the statement of a civilian witness – and determined that police actions did not cause the man’s death. The traffic stop was justified, and although the officer was advised that the man was on his way to a medical appointment, the video confirms there were no indications prior to his collapse that he may be in urgent need of medical care.
The IIO investigation is now concluded. The BC Coroners Service’s independent investigation into the man’s death continues.
Background
The IIO is the independent civilian oversight agency of the police in British Columbia. It investigates all officer-related incidents that result in serious harm or death, whether or not there is any allegation of wrongdoing.