The Independent Investigation Unit of Manitoba (IIU) has concluded its investigation into a death that occurred while in police custody in Winnipeg. The incident, which took place on August 7, 2023, involved a male who had been reported running erratically in traffic while holding a large knife.
According to the Winnipeg Police Service (WPS), officers responded to multiple 911 calls and located the male at a residence on Oakland Avenue. The individual, who admitted to using methamphetamine throughout the night, was taken into custody and placed in the back seat of a police car. As he became extremely agitated, officers called for medical assistance.
The situation escalated when the male’s family members, who were near the police vehicle, became emotionally distressed. To defuse the situation, police decided to move the male a few blocks away to await an ambulance. Upon arrival, the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service found the male unresponsive in the police vehicle and immediately administered CPR. He was transported to Health Sciences Centre Winnipeg in critical condition and was later pronounced deceased. The cause of death was determined to be acute methamphetamine toxicity.
The IIU assumed responsibility for the investigation in accordance with Section 65(4) of the Police Services Act. Nine witness officers were designated and interviewed, and IIU investigators also interviewed six professional witnesses.
After a thorough review of all evidence and material facts, the civilian director concluded that the actions of all police officers were reasonable. As a result, no charges are recommended against any of the witness officers. The IIU has now completed its investigation and the matter is closed.
The civilian director’s complete report is available on the IIU’s website.
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