IIO concludes investigation into Dawson Creek man’s death

SURREY, B.C. – The Independent Investigations Office (IIO) has determined that RCMP actions didn’t cause the death of a Dawson Creek man on February 15th, 2022.

At about 11 a.m. on February 15th, 2022, officers of the B.C. Highway Patrol conducted a traffic stop of a Ford Escape in the area of Highway 97 South and 283 Road.

Police say the male driver was found to have an outstanding warrant and was asked to exit the vehicle.

IIO says dashcam footage from a police vehicle shows the man speaking to an officer at the rear of the Escape when he went into medical distress.

They added that at no time was any force used against the man by police.

Medical assistance was then provided immediately at the roadside, and Emergency Health Services (EHS) were called. EHS transported the man to a local hospital, where he was pronounced deceased, IIO said in a release.

“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,” IIO said.

“The traffic stop was justified. 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.”

IIO says their investigation has concluded, but the B.C. Coroners Service’s independent investigation into the man’s death continues.