MISSISSAUGA – The Special Investigations Unit (SIU) of Ontario has initiated an investigation following the tragic fall of an 18-year-old boy from a parking garage at the Square One Shopping Centre in Mississauga. The incident occurred on Wednesday afternoon, prompting an immediate response from Peel Regional Police.

According to reports, a concerned individual reached out to the Peel Regional Police at approximately 2:20 p.m., expressing worry about a male in distress heading towards the busy shopping mall. Upon arrival, an officer located the 18-year-old in the vicinity of the mall’s parking garage.

Shortly after the officer encountered the young man, he fell from the parking garage to the ground below. Emergency services responded promptly, administering care at the scene; however, the young individual was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.

The SIU became involved due to the contextual circumstances of the incident, as an officer was present at the location when the fall occurred. The agency is mandated to investigate situations where there is a serious injury or death involving law enforcement officers to determine whether any officers acted inappropriately or contributed to the tragedy.

On Thursday, an autopsy was carried out to ascertain the cause of death, and as part of the investigation, the SIU has assigned a team comprising one subject official, two investigators, and one forensic investigator to assess the incident thoroughly.

The SIU has also made a public appeal, urging witnesses who may have witnessed the incident or possess any video footage to come forward. This outreach is critical as it ensures that a comprehensive understanding of the events surrounding the fall can be established, which may assist in the investigation process.

This heartbreaking incident sheds light on the mental health crises that many individuals, including teenagers, may face, and emphasizes the importance of compassionate responses from law enforcement when encountering individuals in distress.

The case continues to develop as investigators aim to uncover the details surrounding the circumstances of the fall. The SIU's probe signifies a commitment to transparency and accountability in situations that involve tragic outcomes, particularly when law enforcement is involved.