The Delta Police Department (DPD) has confirmed that one of the two individuals hospitalized following a tragic incident during a Truth and Reconciliation walk at Tsawwassen Mills on September 30 has died. The deceased, identified as 64-year-old Gwenyth Brigit Dwyn, marks the third fatality linked to this unfortunate event. Memorials have been established for the other two victims, First Nation Elder Barb Joe and Elder Virginia Splockton, at the collision site. The fourth pedestrian involved is now recovering at home.
The police investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident is ongoing. Initially, it was suggested that the driver of the pickup truck might have experienced a “medical incident” leading to the collision with the four pedestrians. However, as the investigation progresses, the Delta Police have yet to reach any definitive conclusions regarding the actual cause of the tragic event. They state, “The possibility that the driver experienced a medical event prior to the collisions remains under investigation,” indicating that no final judgment has been made.
According to police, preliminary evidence does not suggest that the collision was intentional or ideologically motivated. “Based on the evidence reviewed to date, investigators have not identified evidence indicating that the collision was targeted or ideologically motivated,” the DPD added. Nonetheless, authorities have clarified that should further findings point to criminal activity, any potential charges will be forwarded to Crown Counsel for legal assessment.
In an effort to better understand the events leading up to the collision, investigators are focusing on examining the movements of the vehicle involved on the Tsawwassen Mills property prior to the incident. This includes reviewing potential earlier collisions, which may provide critical context regarding the driver’s actions.
Staff Sergeant Mike Whiteley has acknowledged the community's need for clarity regarding the incident. “Our responsibility is to ensure those answers are based on a complete and objective examination of the evidence. Investigators are working through a significant amount of information, and it is important that we not reach conclusions before that work is complete,” he stated, highlighting the complexity of the investigation.
The Delta Police Department urges anyone with additional information relevant to the case, who has not yet come forward, to contact them at 604-946-4411 and refer to file number 26-18401. The department is committed to ensuring that the investigation is thorough and that the community's questions are addressed with substantive and reliable answers.
As the investigation unfolds, the community continues to mourn the loss of the three individuals impacted by this tragic event. A local outpouring of grief emphasizes the importance of safety in public spaces and the need for answers surrounding the incident.
