BC Stands Firm: No Public Inquest for Teen's Tragic Death Amidst Ongoing Watchdog Probe

The grieving parents of 16-year-old Carson Cleland, who tragically died at a treatment centre last October, continue their poignant fight for answers, but the British Columbia government has firmly stated it will not call a public inquest while a key watchdog investigation is underway. This decision, while rooted in procedural adherence, leaves a family yearning for transparency amidst their profound loss.

Premier David Eby addressed the heartbreaking situation directly, acknowledging the immense pain experienced by Carson's parents, Andrew and Jennifer Cleland.

However, he emphasized the critical importance of respecting the independence and integrity of the Independent Investigations Office (IIO) – the civilian-led body tasked with examining serious incidents involving police. Eby articulated concerns that a parallel public inquest could inadvertently complicate or even undermine the IIO's crucial work, stating, "We need to ensure that there is a robust, independent investigation that is able to proceed without any potential undermining."

Carson Cleland was receiving care at a treatment facility for mental health and substance use challenges when he died.

The exact circumstances leading to his passing remain shrouded, intensifying his parents' desperate calls for a public inquest. They believe such a probe is essential to uncover the truth and ensure full accountability, particularly regarding the events in the hours immediately preceding their son's death.

The IIO's investigation specifically focuses on the actions, or inactions, of the RCMP during the incident at the facility.

As a result, the B.C. Coroners Service, which typically oversees public inquests when deaths are sudden, unexpected, or unexplained, is currently deferring its own review. It's standard protocol for the Coroners Service to await the conclusions of criminal investigations to avoid prejudicing potential legal proceedings.

The government's position has drawn criticism, with BC United opposition leader Kevin Falcon publicly supporting the Cleland family's quest for an inquest.

Falcon highlighted the desperate need for answers and transparency when a young life is lost under such concerning circumstances, urging the province to reconsider its stance.

While a public inquest, which falls under the Coroners Act, aims to shed light on the facts and make recommendations to prevent similar tragedies, the current legal framework prioritizes independent criminal or quasi-criminal investigations.

The province has, however, taken a separate step by ordering an independent review into the operations of the very facility where Carson died, signaling a recognition of the broader systemic concerns.

For Andrew and Jennifer Cleland, the waiting game for answers is agonizing. Their fight for a public inquest is not just about their son, but about ensuring that no other family has to endure a similar tragedy without complete transparency.

As the IIO's investigation continues its methodical course, the deep emotional chasm between procedural justice and a family's profound need for closure remains starkly evident in British Columbia.