West Vancouver: IIO Seeks Witnesses After Man Recovered From Howe Sound Dies

B.C.’s Independent Investigations Office is seeking witnesses after a man was recovered from Howe Sound and pronounced dead following a police response in West Vancouver on Nov. 3, 2026.

According to initial information from the West Vancouver Police Department, officers responded at about 5:30 a.m. to 911 calls reporting that a man was trying to jump in front of southbound vehicles. The calls placed him in the Cypress Creek area of Highway 99, near Strachan Point Road.

Officers tried to engage with the person, who then fled into a bush and ravine area, the IIO said. A subsequent search involved a police service dog and the Canadian Coast Guard.

A short time later, a man was recovered from Howe Sound north of 1 Strachan Point Road. He was pronounced dead despite life-saving efforts by BC Emergency Health Services, according to the IIO.

Investigation and witness appeal

The IIO said it was notified shortly after the incident and has opened an investigation. At the start of each investigation, it considers whether a death or qualifying serious harm occurred and whether it was connected to an officer’s action or inaction.

If both conditions are met, the investigation continues to examine the available evidence. At its conclusion, the chief civilian director considers whether there are reasonable grounds to believe an offence may have occurred.

The IIO wants to speak with anyone who witnessed the incident or may have dash-cam footage or other video. Witnesses can call the toll-free witness line at 1-855-446-8477 or use the contact form on the iiobc.ca website.