IIO Concludes Investigation into a Motor Vehicle Incident in Surrey (2021-063)
Case: 2021-063 Incident Date: March 16, 2021 Agency: RCMP Location: Surrey Detachment: Surrey Incident Classification: Serious Harm Case Status: Closed - Without Public ReportINFORMATION BULLETIN
Independent Investigations Office
For Immediate Release
Surrey, B.C. – The Chief Civilian Director (CCD) of the Independent Investigations Office (IIO) of BC has concluded an investigation into a motor vehicle incident in Surrey.
As described in the previous release, on March 16, 2021 at approximately 1:30 p.m., an unmarked Emergency Response Team (ERT) pickup truck was travelling eastbound on 100 Avenue. At the intersection with 148 Street, the ERT truck was involved in a collision with a Honda sedan and a BMW SUV.
Several video sources, including nearby traffic cameras and civilian dash cameras, captured the collision. The video evidence, corroborated by independent witness statements, reflects that the ERT truck was travelling in a manner consistent with the flow of traffic and was not responding to a call while driving down 100 Avenue. As the truck approached the intersection with 148 Street, it is clear in the video footage that the truck is proceeding in the middle of a green light. At the same time, the Honda was clearly facing a red light as it entered the intersection in front of the truck and the collision occurred. The traffic lights did not change for many seconds after the collision. The impact pushed the Honda into the nearby BMW SUV, which was travelling west on 100 Avenue. The sole occupant of the Honda sustained serious injuries in the collision.
The Chief Civilian Director (CCD) has reviewed the available evidence and determined that there was no wrongdoing on the part of the officer driving the ERT truck. The truck was being driven in a safe manner when the collision occurred, and it was not possible to avoid the Honda when it entered the intersection in front of the truck.
The IIO investigation is now concluded.
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.