Image: IIO /  The civilian watchdog agency that investigates officer-related incidents connected to police incidents says it is examining the circumstances surrounding a man's apparent suicide in December 2023 in Abbotsford.

By Mike Vanden Bosch

IIO investigation

IIO investigating AbbyPD after man apparently dies of self-inflicted injuries

Apr 11, 2024 | 2:16 PM

ABBOTSFORD — The civilian watchdog agency that investigates officer-related incidents connected to police incidents says it is examining the circumstances surrounding a man’s apparent suicide in December 2023 in Abbotsford.

According to a statement from the Independent Investigations Office of BC, a caller to 911 on December 30, 2023 reported that her friend, the affected person, had mental health concerns and made threats to hurt himself. Responding police from the Abbotsford Police Department attended the man’s residence the same day and determined he did not appear to be suicidal.

The following day, B.C. Emergency Health Services personnel were called to the man’s residence for reports of a sudden death. Paramedics found the affected person deceased inside from what authorities said were self-inflicted injuries.

The IIO was notified by a member of the public on February 1, 2024 and commenced an investigation.

The IIO says preliminary investigative steps will seek to confirm the details of what occurred leading up to the man’s death, and what role the officers’ actions or inaction may have played.

Bridal Veil Mountain Resort

All-season resort proposed for east of Chilliwack signs letter of intent with Swiss gondola maker

3h ago

Homeless encampments

Homeless camps have nearly doubled in the Chilliwack River Valley, despite stakeholder group attempts to rein them in

4h ago

Fire at abandoned Chilliwack home

Update: Chilliwack Fire, RCMP investigate suspicious fire at abandoned home on Margaret Ave.

7h ago

The IIO is the independent civilian oversight agency of the police in British Columbia. It probes all officer-related incidents that result in serious harm or death, whether or not there is any allegation of wrongdoing.