B.C. Police Watchdog Urgently Seeks Witnesses to Downtown Incident

URGENT UPDATE: The Independent Investigations Office of B.C. (IIO) is urgently seeking witnesses to a significant incident that unfolded in front of Victoria City Hall on August 1, 2023, at approximately 3:45 p.m.. A man was left hospitalized following an encounter with police near the intersection of Douglas Street and Pandora Avenue.

Authorities confirmed that police responded to reports of a man allegedly armed with a weapon. Upon arrival, officers, including members of the Greater Victoria Emergency Response Team, located the individual and attempted to take him into custody. During this interaction, police utilized a “method of less-lethal force,” which resulted in the man suffering injuries. He was subsequently transported to a hospital for assessment and treatment.

The IIO is now investigating the circumstances surrounding this incident. They emphasize the importance of witness accounts, particularly those who have not yet provided statements or who may possess video footage. In a statement, the IIO noted that they examine two critical factors during their investigations: whether an injury meets the threshold of serious harm and if it is connected to police action. If both criteria are met, the investigation will proceed to gather and analyze all available evidence.

Witnesses are urged to come forward by contacting the IIO’s witness line at 1-855-446-8477 or by visiting their website at iiobc.ca. The IIO serves as a civilian oversight agency tasked with investigating all police-related incidents that result in serious injuries or fatalities.

This incident underscores the immediate need for community engagement in helping clarify the details of what transpired. As the investigation unfolds, the IIO will work diligently to determine the facts and ensure accountability.

Stay tuned for further updates as this developing story progresses. Your voice matters—if you have information, act now to help shed light on this critical event.