South Simcoe Police has named the Toronto Police Service to examine an investigation into a fatal crash in 2012.
The Toronto Police Service (TPS) will review the local force’s investigation into the death of teen cyclist Brandon Majewski on Oct. 28, 2012 along Innisfil Beach Road.
In a news release, South Simcoe Police (SSP) says the investigative file was turned over to the TPS earlier this week. It’s expected the review could take up to two months to complete.
SSP Chief Rick Beazley noted in the release, “The review will be comprehensive. The conclusions will be shared.” He says South Simcoe Police will “welcome any recommendations, which will be carefully reviewed and acted upon.”
Last month, Beazley said he would be calling on a separate police service to review his force’s investigation after hearing both criticism from the public and allegations in a civil suit.
Majewski died after he was struck by an SUV while riding his bike with two friends on Innisfil Beach Road early in the morning. After investigating, SSP didn't lay charges against the driver. That decision was also supported by the Crown Attorney’s Office.
But now, a lawsuit filed by Brandon's parents against the driver of the SUV alleges she was intoxicated. There is also an online petition questioning the integrity of the investigation and calling for the review; it has more than 11,000 signatures.
“They did at-scene collision measurements, interviewed all the witnesses, visibility testing, and looked at the vehicle,” Beazley said at the time. “They looked at alcohol as a factor and that was found not to be factor and what we want to do is show the public our investigation was thorough, complete, and we have complete confidence in our investigators.”
Nevertheless, TPS will now be reviewing the investigation. And this isn't the first time this investigation has been reviewed.
The director of the Office of the Independent Police Review looked into the case after receiving complaints from the public and determined it was properly handled. That office ruled out any misconduct by the investigating officers.
Meanwhile, the woman who was driving the SUV is also suing Majewski’s estate, as well as his two friends who were with him that night. She has also named the County of Simcoe in the suit for failing to maintain the road where Majewski was struck.
Neither claim has been proven in court. Lawyers for both parties have said they welcome the independent investigation.
- With files from Mike Walker
