The Special Investigations Unit (SIU) has concluded its investigation into a February collision in Thunder Bay involving a police vehicle and a civilian vehicle. The incident occurred on the afternoon of February 29, 2024, during a police pursuit that ended in a collision on Neebing Avenue.
Incident Overview
On February 29, a Thunder Bay Police Service officer was involved in a pursuit with a 31-year-old male driver. The pursuit lasted approximately four-and-a-half minutes and covered about seven kilometers. The chase concluded when the police and civilian vehicles collided at the southern end of Neebing Avenue. The driver was arrested at the scene and subsequently taken to the hospital for medical evaluation.
SIU Investigation Findings
SIU Director Joseph Martino reviewed the case, which included an examination of the driver’s medical records. The review found no evidence of fractures or other serious injuries. Based on these findings, Director Martino determined that the investigation should be discontinued due to insufficient evidence of “serious injury” as defined by the SIU’s statutory mandate.
About the SIU
The Special Investigations Unit is an independent government agency responsible for investigating incidents involving police officers, special constables with the Niagara Parks Commission, and peace officers with the Legislative Protective Service. The SIU’s mandate covers cases that may have resulted in death, serious injury, sexual assault, or firearm discharge at a person.
SIU investigations are carried out by civilian investigators. Under the Special Investigations Unit Act, the SIU Director must consider whether an official has committed a criminal offense related to the incident. Depending on the evidence, the Director may lay charges or close the file without charges. The SIU also publicly reports the results of its investigations.
Conclusion
The SIU has officially closed the file on the February collision, with no charges laid against the Thunder Bay Police Service officer involved. The decision was based on the absence of serious injury to the civilian driver, as determined by medical assessments.
