News Release

SIU Updates Investigation into Toronto Incident

Case Number: 06-TCD-193   

Other News Releases Related to Case 06-TCD-193

Toronto Man Succumbs to Injuries

TORONTO (15 November, 2006) --- The Special Investigations Unit (SIU) is continuing to probe the circumstances of a 32-year old man's arrest in Toronto.

The SIU was notified that on November 12, 2006, Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) security and the Toronto Police Service (TPS) were called to investigate an assault that took place earlier that evening on a TTC bus. At about 9:00 p.m., two Transit Special Constables arrived to the area of Eglinton Avenue West and Royal York Road and got on a stopped bus to speak with Jasen Drnasin. The Special Constables became involved in a struggle with the man, during which time pepper foam was used to try to control Mr. Drnasin. Mr. Drnasin fled from the bus and ran along Eglinton.

At about 9:42 p.m., TPS officers arrived and chased Mr. Drnasin along Eglinton. The officers caught up to Mr. Drnasin in a grassy area and tried to arrest him. There was a struggle between the man and three TPS officers and the two Special Constables. Mr. Drnasin was eventually handcuffed. Fire and ambulance attendants at the scene were treating Mr. Drnasin when he went into medical distress. He was placed in an ambulance and transported to Humber River Regional Hospital where he is currently in critical condition.

SIU investigators have designated three subject and eleven witness officers from the TPS. The investigation is continuing with police and civilian witness interviews. Anyone who witnessed this incident is asked to contact the lead investigator at 416-622-1957 or 1-800-787-8529 x1957.

The SIU is an independent government agency that investigates the conduct of officials (police officers as well as special constables with the Niagara Parks Commission and peace officers with the Legislative Protective Service) that may have resulted in death, serious injury, sexual assault and/or the discharge of a firearm at a person. All investigations are conducted by SIU investigators who are civilians. Under the Special Investigations Unit Act, the Director of the SIU must

  • consider whether the official has committed a criminal offence in connection with the incident under investigation
  • depending on the evidence, cause a criminal charge to be laid against the official where grounds exist for doing so, or close the file without any charges being laid
  • publicly report the results of its investigations
SIU Communications/Service des communications, UES