IIO Investigates After Police Officers Perform CPR in Two Separate Emergencies
The Independent Investigations Office (IIO) of British Columbia is examining two recent incidents where police officers performed CPR on unresponsive men who later died.
The full original news report from CBC can be read here:
IIO investigates after Abbotsford police officer gives CPR
These cases highlight the critical importance of early CPR and reinforce the value of more Canadians being trained in this life-saving skill.
Abbotsford Incident: Officers Perform CPR After Report of a Fight
The first incident occurred in Abbotsford after police received a report of a fight at a business in the 32900 block of South Fraser Way at approximately 8:28 p.m. PT. When officers arrived, they discovered an unconscious 54-year-old man lying on the ground outside the store.
After determining he had no pulse, officers immediately began CPR. Firefighters and paramedics soon took over resuscitation efforts upon arrival.
Despite attempts to revive him, the man was transported to hospital and later pronounced dead at 9:16 p.m. PT. The IIO is now reviewing the incident as part of its mandate to investigate cases involving police where death or serious harm occurs.
Second Case on Salt Spring Island: Officer Continues CPR Already in Progress
On April 22 at approximately 4:20 a.m. PT, Salt Spring RCMP responded to a report of a fight on Richard Flack Road. When officers arrived, they found a 36-year-old man who was already receiving CPR from two other individuals.
The responding officer continued CPR until emergency health services arrived. Unfortunately, the man could not be revived and later died in hospital. The Vancouver Island Integrated Major Crime Unit is also investigating the case, calling the death “suspicious.”
Why the IIO Investigates
The Independent Investigations Office is a civilian-led oversight body that reviews incidents involving police where serious harm or death occurs. Investigators will determine whether officers’ actions contributed in any way to the outcomes in these cases.
Both investigations remain ongoing, and no conclusions have been released.
The Importance of Timely CPR
Early CPR—whether from a bystander, a trained responder, or a police officer—helps keep blood circulating until paramedics arrive. In many emergencies, this immediate action is the single most important factor in survival.
Learn CPR. Save a Life.
Emergencies can happen anywhere, and having the confidence to act can make all the difference.
If you want to learn how to respond during cardiac and respiratory emergencies, consider enrolling in CPR and AED training.
👉 Learn more about CPR training in Calgary:
https://firstaidcalgary.ca/cpr-courses/
This course teaches essential skills that prepare you to act quickly, confidently, and effectively when it matters most.
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