Police seek observer to oversee crash probe

Regina police are asking for independent oversight of an investigation into the death of a motorcyclist after it was discovered he was being pursued by police prior to the crash.

The crash, which involved the motorcycle and a truck, happened at the intersection of Park Street and 9th Avenue on the afternoon of June 30. The motorcyclist was a 26-year-old man from Grenfell. Police have not released his name.

On Friday, police issued a release about the request for oversight, which said the investigation revealed the motorcyclist was being pursued by police leading up to the crash.

According to police, the event began at 4 p.m. when an officer travelling westbound on Victoria Avenue noticed a motorcyclist with a passenger travelling eastbound on Victoria. The driver of the motorcycle was not wearing a helmet, which caused the officer to change direction and attempt to pull over the vehicle.

The motorcyclist stopped briefly to let his passenger get off the motorcycle before speeding away. The officer activated the cruiser’s emergency lights and followed the motorcycle. Police said they believe the motorcyclist was aware of the officer’s efforts to stop him.

Police said this action would be considered a pursuit, and the Regina Police Service has therefore asked the Ministry of Justice to appoint an independent observer oversee its investigation. The investigation into the man’s death will continue in conjunction with the Office of the Chief Coroner.

On the day of the crash, Staff Sgt. Dean Yadlowski told reporters that police were in the area at the time. However, Yadlowski said at that time there was no indication police were pursuing the motorcycle.