Update to IIO Investigation in Salmon Arm

INFORMATION BULLETIN
Independent Investigations Office
For Immediate Release
June 24, 2013

SURREY – The Independent Investigations Office (IIO) is providing updated information on its Salmon Arm investigation.

According to the RCMP, on June 21, 2013 at approximately 12:15 a.m., an RCMP officer in Salmon Arm attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a vehicle and driver.

Initial information indicated that the vehicle stopped, then subsequently fled once the officer approached.  It has since been clarified that the vehicle did not stop at any point; rather it fled immediately when the officer attempted to stop it.

A brief pursuit was initiated but was subsequently terminated.  Shortly thereafter, the vehicle collided with a parked truck.  The driver of the vehicle did not survive her injuries.  Her identity has been released to the public by the BC Coroners Service as 21 year-old Courtenay Brianne Eggen, of Cherryville.

The IIO was notified at 12:30 a.m., and deployed investigators immediately, including a Level 4 Traffic Reconstructionist.

The IIO and the RCMP will work within the terms agreed upon in the Memorandum of Understanding that was signed by the Chief Civilian Director and B.C.’s police services in July 2012.

As set by the Chief Civilian Director, the IIO’s goals are to conduct fair, unbiased, timely, thorough and competent investigations, and ensure transparency through public reporting.

The IIO investigation into this incident is ongoing.  Please note that no further information is available at this time.

Contact:
owen.court@iiobc.ca