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Family responds to daughter's death

The family of a woman who was killed in Salmon Arm on June 21 says they have full confidence in the independent investigations (IIO) team that was brought in from Vancouver to question police about the events leading up to their daughter's death. 

"They have been diligent and professional in this case so far. It's been really clear to us that they take pride in the job. There's no question in our minds that they are taking this seriously," said Ian Eggen.
 
21-year-old Courtenay Eggen died when the vehicle she was driving slammed into a dump truck parked along Auto Road SE in Salmon Arm. Police say an officer gave pursuit when the young woman fled during an attempted traffic stop.
 
The RCMP have stated that they called off the chase prior to the crash, however, members of the Salmon Arm community who witnessed the event quickly came forward with a different story.  
 
Owen Court of the IIO says the investigation is still in its infancy, and it's close to impossible to predict when it will be completed.
 
"The investigation is ongoing, and it's proceeding well," said Court.
 
"Our overarching commitment is to produce results in these cases in a more timely manner than the public is accustomed to seeing in the past."
 
Courtenay's father says the family feels it's important to let the investigation unfold without interference. 
 
"We don't want to do anything to compromise the case. We need to let [the Independent Investigations Office] do their job," said Eggen.
 
Although the Eggen family feels comfortable with the wait-and-see approach, Courtenay's father says he expects to be in regular contact with investigators. 
 
"We don't want the investigation to lose its momentum, and they have assured us that's not going to happen. I feel confident they are going to see this thing through," he said. 
 
Court says the IIO will endeavour to complete the investigation as soon as possible.
 
"Once complete, the case will be reviewed by our Chief Civilian Director and he will give an opinion as to whether an officer committed an offense," said Court.
 
From there, the case is either referred to Crown Counsel for prosecution, or the IIO will release their findings in a report to the public.


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