The province's Independent Investigations Office (IIO) has completed its initial investigation of a motorcycle crash on Evergreen Road off Dogwood early Sunday morning that involved an RCMP cruiser.
IIO spokesman Owen Court says a team of five investigators has returned to Surrey headquarters. They were sent to Campbell River after being notified of the accident.
At 2 a.m. Campbell River RCMP observed an adult male who was operating a motorcycle along Dogwood Street at a high rate of speed. RCMP used a police vehicle to block the two centre lanes of Dogwood Street just south of Second Avenue. The motorcycle continued and turned westbound onto Evergreen Road. At a point 800 metres west of Dogwood Street a collision occurred between the motorcycle and an RCMP vehicle. The motorcyclist sustained serious head injuries and was transported to hospital.
The IIO’s Executive Director of Public Accountability Kellie Kilpatrick says “the preliminary investigation does not suggest a pursuit” was in progress. However, she adds: “We are still asking for witnesses to get in touch with us by phoning 1-855-446-8477.”
The Campbell River RCMP is continuing its investigation into the actions of the motorcycle driver. He remains in hospital.
The IIO is a civilian-led office established to conduct criminal investigations into incidents that involve B.C. police officers and result in death or serious harm.