IIO Reaches Decision in February 2021 Death in Opitsaht (2021-046)
Case: 2021-046 Incident Date: February 27, 2021 Location: Meares Island Agency: RCMP Detachment: Tofino Incident Classification: Death Case Status: Closed - With 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 investigation 2021-046 into an officer-involved shooting death in the community of Opitsaht on Meares Island.
At about 9:30 p.m. on February 27, 2021, Tofino RCMP officers responded to a report of a woman being held against her will at a residence in Opitsaht. The incident resulted in one man being shot and killed by officers, and another man was taken into custody.
“As a matter related to the incident is currently before the courts, the IIO is unable to provide further details regarding the incident or rationale for this decision at this time. I regret that the frustration this lack of information will cause is required to ensure a fair trial. However, I feel it necessary to advise the public, and in particular the family of the deceased and other involved parties, that this investigation has concluded in as timely a manner as possible,” said Chief Civilian Director Ronald J. MacDonald, KC. “Once the court process concludes, I and my investigative team will ensure we are available to meet with the affected person’s family and community members to review the investigation and to answer questions.”
The Chief Civilian Director has reviewed the final report of the Indigenous Civilian Monitor and all available evidence – including information from witnesses and forensic scene analysis – and determined that there are no reasonable grounds to believe that any officer committed an offence. Accordingly, the matter will not be referred to Crown Counsel for consideration of charges. The IIO investigation is now concluded.
The IIO’s public report and the final report of the Indigenous Civilian Monitor will be published on the IIO website when the court process has 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.