The Independent Investigations Office of BC (IIO) is investigating after an hours-long police standoff in Saanich culminated in the death of a man.
On Monday, just after 5 p.m., Saanich Police were called to a home in the 900-block of Easter Road. A man inside the residence reportedly told officers that he was armed and had a hostage, according to an IIO media release.
When the man didn’t comply with police directions to exit the home, Greater Victoria’s Emergency Response Team was called in to assist, as well as crisis negotiators.
As the incident transpired, Saanich Police also asked people to avoid the area and closed off a section of the road.
At the time, a witness told Victoria Buzz that officers were utilizing flashbangs—grenades that produce a bright flash without causing serious injury. He said that police dogs were also on scene.
“It’s scary because of the family next door. The husband and two kids are in the basement, and his wife was at work while this happened, so she can’t get to her family,” the witness said.
“I’m somewhat scared, and I’m not next door like they are.”
Hours later, at around 11:30 p.m., police then entered the home and reportedly found the man unresponsive, the IIO says.
“The man had serious injuries that appear to have been self-inflicted and was pronounced dead at the scene,” it added.
“It is reported there was no one else located inside the residence.”
An IIO investigation is now underway, as investigators hope to find what role, if any, police actions or inactions played in the death. The BC Coroners Service has also launched its own independent investigation.
Saanich Police say the area surrounding the residence is currently taped off, with investigators expected to be on scene for the remainder of Tuesday.
The IIO asks anyone with relevant information about the incident to contact its Witness Line toll-free at 1 (855) 446-8477 or via its website contact form.
If you or someone you know needs help, call the BC Crisis Centre Distress Line number at 1-800-SUICIDE or 1 (800) 784-2433.
