SIU investigating after St. Catharines man dies following crisis

Ontario’s police watchdog is investigating after a man who was in crisis died in St. Catharines on Thursday after negotiations with Niagara Regional Police Service officers.

The Special Investigations Unit (SIU) invoked its mandate after the man was pronounced deceased. The agency investigates reports involving police where there has been death, serious injury or allegations of sexual assault.

According to a Niagara police statement, officers were called to a residence on Russell Avenue at 3:45 p.m. on Thursday (June 24). The man was armed with a knife. The police service summoned its emergency task unit and crisis negotiators were engaged.

The negotiations continued until about 6:20 p.m., when the man was transported to hospital with injuries. He was subsequently pronounced deceased.

Anyone who may have witnessed this incident or have information can call the NRPS (905-688-4111, ext. 1009234) or the SIU (1-800-787-8529).