B.C. arrest with less-lethal weapons and police dog sparks IIO investigation
A man exited a Saanich home on Woodhall Drive after hours of negotiations Thursday night. Independent Investigations Office is examining whether injuries meet the threshold of serious harm.
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Saanich Police received a call shortly after 10 p.m. on September 18 regarding a man involved in a possible assault at a home on Woodhall Drive. The Greater Victoria Emergency Response Team deployed to the scene. Police negotiated and contained the area for several hours before the man exited the residence.
Officers deployed less-lethal use-of-force weapons and a police service dog during the arrest. The man was taken into custody and then to hospital for assessment and treatment of injuries.
The Independent Investigations Office of BC was notified shortly after and opened an investigation. The IIO will determine whether the man's injuries meet the threshold of "serious harm" as defined by the Police Act, and whether those injuries connect to police actions or inaction. If both conditions are met, the investigation will examine all available evidence. At its conclusion, the IIO's chief civilian director will consider whether reasonable grounds exist to believe an offence may have occurred.
The IIO is requesting witnesses contact the IIO Witness Line toll-free at 1-855-446-8477 or via the contact form at iiobc.ca. The appeal for witnesses was issued Saturday, September 19.
The man's identity, the specific nature of his injuries, his current condition, and whether any charges have been or will be laid have not been disclosed.
The facts
When did Saanich Police respond to the incident on Woodhall Drive?
Saanich Police received a call shortly after 10 p.m. on Friday, September 18, 2026 regarding a man involved in a possible assault at a home on Woodhall Drive.
What weapons did police use during the arrest?
Officers deployed less-lethal use-of-force weapons and a police service dog during the arrest.
Who is investigating the incident?
The Independent Investigations Office of BC opened an investigation to determine whether the man's injuries meet the threshold of 'serious harm' under the Police Act and whether those injuries connect to police actions or inaction.
