A West Shore RCMP officer displayed “compassion and courage” in dealing with a distraught woman in Langford on July 19 and his actions in no way contributed to her taking her own life, B.C.’s police watchdog has concluded.
In a report released Monday, the Independent Investigations Office, which investigates police-involved deaths and serious injuries, also praised a 17-year-old witness who did not know the distressed woman, but nevertheless “demonstrated significant courage and kindness” in trying to help her.
“This is a tragic incident that has impacted all involved,” said Ronald MacDonald, the agency’s chief civilian director, adding that it “potentially placed others in danger” as they engaged with the woman. “The evidence collected does not provide grounds to consider any charges against any officer,” the report concluded.
The name of the deceased woman was not released.
— Times Colonist
