FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 27, 2026 File: 2025-193 Victoria, B.C. – The Independent Investigations Office (IIO) has concluded its investigation into an incident that occurred nearly six months ago involving an officer of the Victoria Police Department (VicPD) and the arrest of a suspect possessing a rifle.The IIO investigation determined that there were no reasonable grounds to believe that the officer committed an offence under any enactment, and the matter will not be referred to Crown Counsel for charge consideration. On August 1, 2025, at 3:48 p.m., VicPD received reports of an individual with a rifle near City Hall. The suspect was instructed to drop the rifle but failed to comply and continued to walk towards City Hall. Due to the serious nature of the reports, members of the Greater Victoria Emergency Response Team (GVERT) and other VicPD officers responded. Police deployed a less lethal projectile. The suspect was arrested and it was then determined he suffered a fractured skull. The IIO investigation concluded that the evidence confirms the responding officer's actions were necessary and reasonable, given they were faced with an individual armed with what appeared to be a lethal weapon approaching a high-traffic area downtown. “We are pleased with the IIO’s independent review. This decision affirms our officer’s appropriate actions in a dangerous situation. Their use of less-lethal force prioritized public safety, and we stand by their actions,” said Chief Constable Fiona Wilson. VicPD remains committed to supporting all officers involved and to transparent communications and investigations in relation to critical incidents.

IIO Investigation Clears VicPD Officer in August 2025 Incident

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