Family members of a man who passed away following a confrontation with security personnel at a Saskatoon hospital are challenging statements made by city police regarding the discovery of a replica firearm in his room.
Val Dubois, mother of Trevor Dubois, expressed a desire for clarity about the circumstances surrounding the incident. Trevor, aged 36, was undergoing treatment for brain cancer at Royal University Hospital, as confirmed by his family.
According to Saskatoon police, officers responded to a call at the hospital early on a Friday morning, reporting the death of a man. Investigators determined that security staff entered the patient’s room after reports of a firearm sighting. A physical altercation ensued during the attempt to restrain the individual, leading to his unresponsiveness and subsequent death.
Subsequent to the incident, an imitation firearm, methamphetamine, and drug-related items were discovered by the authorities. The family of Trevor Dubois expressed surprise over the police’s public release of information without prior communication. Val Dubois described the news of the imitation firearm as shocking to them.
The family refuted the claim of an imitation firearm, suggesting it was a vividly colored cigarette holder and lighter. They presented a photo of a similar cigarette holder and lighter model, emphasizing that Trevor’s possession would have been distinctively colored.
Saskatoon police declined to provide a photo of the alleged imitation firearm, citing an ongoing investigation. They acknowledged the family’s concerns and pledged to offer updates as appropriate.
During a press conference, family members, accompanied by Saskatoon Tribal Council representatives, expressed their anguish over the lack of information. Ryan Dubois, Trevor’s older brother, described him as a compassionate individual and urged against premature judgments, emphasizing the need for thorough investigations.
The family highlighted Trevor’s background as Metis and a member of the Muskoday First Nation, portraying him as a benevolent individual who assisted First Nations youth in northern Saskatchewan. Muskoday First Nation Chief Ron Bear stressed the importance of uncovering the truth behind Trevor’s death and emphasized the need for accountability.
Amid calls for transparency and justice, Tribal Chief Marc Arcand criticized the healthcare system for systemic racism against First Nations individuals. He advocated for First Nations oversight in institutions like hospitals to prevent similar tragedies.
The Saskatchewan Health Authority classified Dubois’s demise as a critical incident, triggering an internal review process and a use-of-force assessment regarding the security officer involved. The officer has been suspended pending the review outcome and a labor relations inquiry.
Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill extended condolences to the family and affirmed ongoing cooperation with the Saskatoon Tribal Council. He indicated discussions with the SHA regarding facility safety and pledged further updates on addressing current challenges.
Recent incidents in Saskatchewan hospitals, including security measures and responses to potential threats, have raised concerns and prompted calls for enhanced safety protocols and emergency plans.