THE Independent Investigations Office (IIO) of BC announced on Friday that its investigation into the death of taxi driver Rajinder (Ronnie) Singh in Victoria last October has determined that the involved officers were acting lawfully when they attempted a traffic stop of the vehicle that was involved in the collision with a taxi and a bus.

At about 12:50 a.m. on October 19, 2024, members of the Victoria Police Department attempted to conduct a traffic stop of a blue Nissan Titan on Courtney Street between Gordon and Douglas.

The Titan did not stop and was involved in a collision with a taxi and a BC Transit bus near the intersection of Douglas and Humboldt streets. The driver of the taxi was seriously injured in the collision and, despite the life-saving measures of first responders, he was pronounced deceased on scene.

The IIO was notified of the incident shortly after it occurred and commenced an investigation to determine what role, if any, police actions may have played in the death.

The IIO said that the Chief Civilian Director has reviewed the evidence – including forensic scene investigation, statements from civilian witnesses, video footage, and police records – and determined that the involved officers were acting lawfully when they attempted a traffic stop of the Titan. The Titan drove away quickly, and the officers did not engage in a high-speed pursuit. Their actions are not responsible for the taxi driver’s tragic death.

A GoFundMe campaign raised more than $66,000 for Ronnie Singh.

“Ronnie was not just a friend; he was a brother to his sister and older brother, and a devoted son to his ailing parents back in India. He was a jolly soul who spread happiness wherever he went, always ready to lend a helping hand. Working tirelessly as a taxi driver during the nights and juggling multiple jobs, Ronnie dedicated his life to supporting his family, sacrificing his own dreams to ensure theirs could thrive,” according to the GoFundMe campaign.