The Special Investigations Unit (SIU) has cleared a Toronto police officer of any wrongdoing in a fatal crash that occurred last year.
According to the SIU, the incident took place on November 12, 2020, when the officer was responding to a call for a stolen vehicle. The officer was driving an unmarked police vehicle and had activated the emergency lights and siren.
As the officer approached an intersection, a 29-year-old man driving a motorcycle collided with the police vehicle. The man was pronounced dead at the scene.
The SIU conducted a thorough investigation into the incident, including interviewing witnesses and reviewing video footage. They determined that the officer had followed all necessary protocols and had not acted in a manner that would warrant criminal charges.
In a statement released by the SIU, Director Joseph Martino stated, “The evidence establishes that the officer was responding to an emergency call and had activated the emergency equipment on his vehicle. He was proceeding through the intersection with due regard for the safety of others.”
The SIU is an independent agency that investigates incidents involving police officers in Ontario where there has been death, serious injury, or allegations of sexual assault. They are responsible for determining whether there are grounds to lay criminal charges against the officers involved.
This decision by the SIU has been met with mixed reactions. Some have expressed relief and support for the officer, while others have criticized the decision and called for more accountability for police officers.
The Toronto Police Service has also released a statement in response to the SIU’s decision, expressing their condolences to the family and friends of the man who died in the crash. They also stated that they will continue to cooperate with the SIU and any other investigations into the incident.
This is not the first time the SIU has cleared a Toronto police officer in a fatal crash. In 2019, they cleared an officer in a collision that resulted in the death of a 73-year-old woman.
The SIU’s decision in this case highlights the difficult and often controversial role they play in investigating incidents involving police officers. While some may disagree with their findings, the SIU remains committed to conducting thorough and impartial investigations to ensure accountability and transparency in cases like this.
