A recent tragedy near Nelson, BC, exposed critical failures in emergency response protocols. A 25-year-old man, Justin Lasichuk, lost his life after his vehicle went off the highway. Despite repeated calls for help and a known location radius, authorities failed to deploy Search and Rescue (SAR) or Fire services, ultimately leaving his loved ones to search for him in freezing conditions.

We demand a full investigation, increased transparency, and a review of emergency response deployment to prevent future tragedies. It is imperative that Nelson City Police, RCMP and Public Safety Authorities review their policies and procedures immediately to ensure that no one else is left to suffer due to premature decisions and lack of action.

This issue affects everyone in our community. When emergency services fail to respond effectively, lives are put at risk. Families and loved ones are left searching on their own, without the support of trained professionals.

In remote and mountainous regions like the Kootenay Boundary, where winter road conditions are often treacherous, clear and reliable emergency response is essential. Without it, anyone who experiences an accident—whether a resident or a visitor—could face the same devastating outcome.

If emergency response protocols remain unclear and inconsistent, more lives could be lost due to preventable delays. Without action, families in crisis will continue to face confusion, inaction, and a lack of support from authorities when they need it most.

Failing to address these issues erodes public trust and leaves our community vulnerable. We cannot allow another person to be left alone in freezing temperatures while their loved ones struggle to find them.

Justin’s tragic death must serve as a wake-up call. This could have happened to anyone. The only way to ensure it never happens again is to demand immediate transparency and reform in emergency response protocols.

Authorities must be held accountable for their decisions, and the public must have access to clear guidelines on how emergency resources are deployed. We need policies that prioritize saving lives—before another preventable tragedy occurs.

When do requesting agencies, such as RCMP, deploy SAR and Fire?

In policy, when does RCMP call off a search?

What is the rescue deployment protocol when someone is missing in dangerous conditions at night? Who makes these decisions? 

Join us in calling for transparency, accountability, and urgent changes to emergency response procedures. Sign the petition and help us push for a safer community.

Thank you for your support