Kamloops RCMP cleared of wrongdoing in hit and run investigation

The man was taken to hospital but didn’t survive the injuries he sustained in the crash. The car took off after the collision and hasn’t been located since.

Because the man had interacted with officers prior to his death, the IIO was notified by the RCMP of the incident, and it launched its investigation.

Investigators collected CCTV footage from the man’s time in custody, and a review of relevant police reports.

The IIO investigates incidents to determine if an officer — through action or inaction — may have committed an offence in relation to the incident that led to a person’s death or serious harm.

“In this case the IIO investigated to determine if the (man) was fit when he was released,” the report states.

CCTV footage showed the man as he was released from cells, and according to the report his behaviours and actions show a person who appears coordinated and sober. The recording also shows him talking to officers and walking away from the detachment in a “coordinated manner.” He was also dressed appropriately for the weather conditions.

The man’s release came nine hours after his arrest, and the report points out that is ample time for effects of intoxication to dissipate. The collision occurred five-and-a-half hours later.

“The evidence collected corroborates the evidence provided by police abnd confirms that (the man) was fit for release. As a result it is clear there is no causal link between the actions of the officers and the death of the (man).”

by Ashley Legassic

Kamloops RCMP cleared of wrongdoing in hit and run investigation

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