The Independent Investigations Office of BC (IIO) has recommended charges against a police officer following a fatal crash near Nakusp last year. The incident occurred on November 25, 2024, when police spotted a stolen green 2003 Ford F350 pickup truck traveling on Highway 6.
According to the IIO, a police officer in a marked vehicle tried to stop the truck, but it ended up crashing into a ditch after a short pursuit, resulting in the driver’s death at the scene. The passenger was arrested, treated at a hospital, and later released.
After a thorough examination of the evidence, IIO’s chief civilian director, Jessica Berglund, found sufficient grounds to suspect the officer of potential driving offenses related to the incident. A report has been sent to the BC Prosecution Service for review and potential charges.
For charges to be approved, the BC Prosecution Service must determine a strong likelihood of conviction based on the evidence and the necessity of prosecution in the public interest.
The IIO is mandated to investigate police-involved incidents leading to death or serious injury, regardless of any prior allegations of misconduct.
