An investigation has commenced regarding the passing of an individual who succumbed five days following an encounter with Ontario Provincial Police in Parry Sound back in 2018. The deceased, identified as David Gourley, aged 57, breathed his last on July 17, 2018, at Sudbury hospital. His demise was attributed to complications arising from rhabdomyolysis, a condition triggering muscle breakdown, induced by prolonged cocaine usage.
The initial day of the four-day inquest primarily delved into the deployment of a conducted energy weapon, commonly known as a TASER, on Gourley by the police. The incident unfolded after reports emerged about a man darting in and out of traffic at the intersection of Bowes and Beaver Streets in Parry Sound on July 12, 2018, attempting to access vehicles.
Detective Constable Adam Hemming, the first responder at the scene, noted Gourley’s erratic behavior, indicative of a state of psychosis. Despite recognizing Gourley from previous substance-related encounters, Hemming observed Gourley’s inability to communicate clearly, coupled with rapid, disjointed speech and distant stares.
The situation escalated as Gourley sought refuge under a stationary vehicle, prompting officers to intervene to control the situation amidst passing traffic. Despite attempts to extract Gourley from under the vehicle, he displayed significant resistance, leading to the use of a Taser in a non-incapacitating manner.
Officers testified that Gourley exhibited physical defiance while being restrained, with uncertainty prevailing over whether his actions were driven by resistance or his mental state. Following the application of handcuffs, Gourley was moved away from the road to a safe area, awaiting medical assistance. Despite Gourley’s uncooperative behavior during transportation to medical facilities, no physical aggression was reported in the ambulance.
Gourley was subsequently transferred to a local Parry Sound hospital before being airlifted to Sudbury, where he later passed away on July 17, 2018. The ongoing inquest, set to conclude within the week, will feature testimony from forensic pathologists on September 8.