The province's police watchdog has launched a thorough investigation after a tragic incident in Windsor that left a pedestrian dead following an interaction with local law enforcement.
The Special Investigations Unit (SIU) confirmed they were notified about the Wednesday evening incident that occurred near the intersection of Ouellette Avenue and Wyandotte Street East. According to preliminary reports, Windsor police officers were attempting to locate an individual when the situation escalated.
What We Know About the Incident
The SIU reports that around 9:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Windsor police officers were actively searching for a person in the downtown core. During their efforts to locate the individual, an interaction occurred that resulted in the pedestrian being struck by a vehicle.
Emergency services rushed the victim to hospital with life-threatening injuries. Despite medical intervention, the individual was pronounced deceased shortly after arrival.
SIU's Comprehensive Investigation
The Special Investigations Unit has invoked its mandate and assigned a team of investigators to examine the circumstances surrounding the death. The SIU automatically investigates any incident involving police that results in serious injury, death, or allegations of sexual assault.
Key aspects of the investigation include:
- Reviewing police communications and records
- Examining physical evidence from the scene
- Identifying and interviewing witnesses
- Analyzing surveillance footage from the area
- Consulting with forensic specialists
Community Impact and Police Response
The incident has raised concerns within the Windsor community about police procedures and pedestrian safety. Local residents have expressed shock and sadness over the tragic outcome.
Windsor Police Service has confirmed their full cooperation with the SIU investigation while conducting their own internal review of the incident. The officers involved have been designated as subject officers and witness officers under the SIU's classification system.
The SIU is urging anyone who witnessed the incident or has relevant information to come forward and contact their lead investigator immediately. The investigation continues as authorities work to piece together the exact sequence of events that led to this fatal outcome.
