Home / Crime and Justice / Police cleared in man's death after drug overdose
Police cleared in man's death after drug overdose
5 Nov
Summary
- Man died from acute cocaine toxicity, not police actions.
- Police responded to a break-in call at a Burrin Avenue home.
- Man was unresponsive and handcuffed when officers arrived.
The Independent Investigation Unit of Manitoba has concluded its investigation into the death of a 34-year-old man, announcing on Thursday that no charges will be recommended against the involved Winnipeg police officers. This incident occurred on April 1 at a residence on Burrin Avenue.
Officers responded to a 911 call reporting a home invasion, where the suspect refused to leave. A civilian present at the home restrained the intruder until police arrived. The suspect exhibited erratic behavior, speaking incoherently and showing signs of severe distress.
Upon police arrival, the man was found unresponsive and handcuffed for safety. First aid was administered, and Narcan was given due to suspected overdose. He was transported to the hospital in critical condition and later pronounced dead.
Preliminary autopsy results identified acute cocaine toxicity as the cause of death, with the physiological stress from the struggle and restraint being a contributing factor. The IIU report explicitly stated that police involvement did not contribute to the cause of death.
