They were there for the police: Family upset that IIU clears Winnipeg officer of wrongdoing

The family of Tammy Bateman says they’re disappointed with a decision by Manitoba’s Independent Investigation Unit (IIU)and its year- long probe into the circumstances surrounding her death to not lay charges. “I didn’t feel a good vibe coming from them,” says Lori Bateman, Tammy’s sister. “They weren’t there for me. They were there for the police in my eyes.” On Sept. 2, 2024 an unmarked Winnipeg police vehicle struck and killed Tammy Bateman, 34, in Fort Rouge Park. Bateman had been living in an encampment in the park near the Red River when the incident happened. “This was a tragic accident. After a thorough investigation, there is no evidence to support any criminal charges against the officer involved,” said Zane Tessler, civilian director of the IIU of Manitoba. The IIU says in its report it obtained audio transmissions, notes and reports of officers, a collision analyst’s report, GPS data from the police vehicle and medical reports. The IIU interviewed two officers and three other people who were witnesses. The report also says IIU investigators who attended to the scene of the incident “attempted to canvass the encampment for further witnesses. Unfortunately, some individuals in the encampment were unwilling or unable to cooperate with the IIU investigation.” Bateman was a member of Roseau River Anishinaabe First Nation, an hour south of Winnipeg. Her death was one of at least nine in Canada after interacting with police in 2024. “I still haven’t got an apology for what happened to my sister,” Lori Bateman tells APTN News. Despite her hurt and anger-Bateman is hoping the new Winnipeg Police Chief Gene Bower will reach out to her now that the IIU report has been completed-first for an apology, then to find solutions for relatives who are homeless and forced to live on the street or encampments. “We need to all work together with the Winnipeg police so this doesn’t happen again,” Bateman says. Continue Reading