The Independent Investigations Office (IIO) of British Columbia is currently probing an incident involving a man who sustained injuries following an encounter with police in the vibrant Downtown Eastside neighborhood a few months back.
The event unfolded in the morning of May 28, 2025, when Vancouver Police Department officers responded to a call at a residential building on West Hastings, near Carrall Street, regarding a man allegedly wielding a weapon.
Upon arrival, law enforcement was informed that the man was holed up in a residential unit, prompting the deployment of the Emergency Response Team for assistance, according to the IIO.
Following a period of negotiation, the man was eventually apprehended and subsequently taken to a nearby hospital for medical care.
The IIO was promptly informed of the incident and has since initiated an investigation, citing the man’s injuries as meeting the criteria of serious harm outlined in the Police Act. Notably, the individual was found in possession of an air-powered pellet gun that bore a striking resemblance to a real firearm.
The investigative body has conducted interviews with numerous civilian witnesses and multiple police personnel. Additionally, they have gathered various evidence sources, including video recordings, with plans to delve into further interviews and forensic analysis.
Individuals holding information or footage related to the incident are urged to contact the IIO Witness Line at 1-855-446-8477.