A recent report from a coroner has determined that the death of a 29-year-old man in the aftermath of a police confrontation was accidental, with the restraint method used by the officers likely playing a role. Abisay Cruz passed away on March 30, 2025, following an incident that originated on the rear balcony of an apartment in Saint-Michel, Montreal. Cruz was one of two individuals who died in separate police operations conducted by the Montreal police within a 12-hour period that weekend, leading to protests and increased distrust of law enforcement in the community.
The technique employed, known as the “hogtie technique,” involves binding an individual’s limbs behind their back while they are lying face down. The coroner’s report, conducted by Géhane Kamel, concluded that Cruz’s death was a result of cocaine intoxication and likely positional asphyxia during the police intervention. Kamel highlighted that the hogtie technique is discouraged and prohibited by several police and medical organizations due to its association with detainee deaths and concerns regarding safety and human rights violations, suggesting it significantly contributed to Cruz’s demise.
The report delves into Cruz’s final moments, outlining conflicting narratives provided by his family and the police officers present during the incident. Kamel noted that Cruz, described as an affectionate individual with a strong family bond, was facing deportation to Honduras, which likely added to his stress leading up to the tragic event. The report also mentioned that while police perceived Cruz as an immediate physical threat, witnesses offered differing accounts, with some stating Cruz was cooperative before the situation escalated.
During the intervention, five police officers were involved in restraining Cruz, with the Montreal police yet to comment on the incident. The report recommended banning the hogtie technique and suggested equipping officers with naloxone kits and body-worn cameras for crisis response and situations involving force. Additionally, it criticized the response from Urgences-santé, highlighting service shortages on the day of Cruz’s death.
The province’s independent police watchdog, the BEI, conducted an investigation into Cruz’s death, concluding that no criminal charges would be filed against the officers involved. However, concerns were raised regarding the police’s handling of the situation, particularly the prolonged face-down restraint of Cruz and the lack of supervisory intervention as his condition worsened. Kamel’s report emphasized the need for policy changes within the Montreal police service to prevent similar incidents in the future.
