A recent report strongly criticizes the RCMP’s handling of an investigation into an industrial accident resulting in a fatality. Andrew Gnazdowsky, 26, tragically drowned while working at a Nova Scotia Power reservoir in October 2020. The Civilian Review and Complaints Commission (CRCC) report deemed the initial investigation into Gnazdowsky’s death as “grossly inadequate and unreasonable.”
Furthermore, the report highlighted that the investigating officer neglected to properly secure potential evidence at the scene. The CRCC, an independent civilian body overseeing complaints against the RCMP, addressed the concerns raised by Andrew’s sister, Nicole Gnazdowsky.
Nicole expressed relief that the commission acknowledged the shortcomings in the investigation. She had persistently fought for justice following her brother’s death, which led to the provincial government taking over the inquiry soon after the incident.
Three entities, including Nova Scotia Power, Brunswick Engineering and Consulting, and Gemtec Consulting, faced charges under the province’s occupational health and safety regulations, resulting in a collective fine of $260,000 over Andrew Gnazdowsky’s death.
Initially, Nicole’s complaint to the RCMP regarding their handling of the case was dismissed. Despite Insp. Cory Bushell defending the RCMP’s actions, the CRCC disagreed, criticizing the hasty transfer of the investigation to Nova Scotia Power and the lack of thorough criminal scrutiny.
While the CRCC recognized obstacles to pursuing criminal charges, it recommended enhanced training for officers involved in the case and the broader force. RCMP Supt. Don Moser acknowledged the need for operational adjustments to address the identified issues and expressed regret for the distress experienced by the Gnazdowsky family.
Nicole Gnazdowsky emphasized the importance of implementing the CRCC’s recommendations for future cases, vowing to continue advocating for change.
