The mother of 33-year-old Myles Gray, who passed away following an altercation with Vancouver Police Department (VPD) members, provided her testimony during a public hearing on Monday. Margie Gray initially expressed shock upon learning of her son’s death, later breaking down in anguish.
During the hearing, all seven VPD officers involved denied any allegations of using excessive force leading to Gray’s demise. The incident occurred in August 2015 when Gray was confronted by police in a wooded area in Burnaby after being reported for spraying someone with a garden hose. His injuries included severe physical trauma.
Margie Gray described her son as an active individual who enjoyed various outdoor activities and was dedicated to his floral business. On the day of the incident, she received a call from one of his employees reporting his disappearance, leading her to find his van abandoned at a florist supply shop.
Despite the family’s distress, the police officers did not present a photo of Myles Gray for identification but relied on his distinctive necklaces. The public hearing aims to determine if the VPD constables involved misused their authority during the altercation.
Family and friends of Myles Gray expressed frustration, feeling that his character is being unfairly scrutinized, and doubting that the hearing will bring justice. Investigations into the incident have previously resulted in no criminal charges against the officers involved.
The ongoing hearing, spanning 10 weeks, is expected to feature over 30 witnesses, including law enforcement personnel and medical experts. The accused officers are not obligated to testify, with the proceedings set to continue.