RCMP Apologizes After Watchdog Deems Investigation Into 2020 Nova Scotia Workplace Drowning 'Grossly Inadequate'
A Civilian Review and Complaints Commission report found the RCMP's investigation into the October 2020 drowning of engineer Andrew Gnazdowsky at a Nova Scotia Power reservoir was grossly inadequate. Following a 2024 complaint by his sister, the RCMP apologized and committed to improved training for workplace death investigations.
The Civilian Review and Complaints Commission (CRCC) released a final report dated Oct. 14 finding that the RCMP’s initial investigation into the death of Andrew Gnazdowsky was "grossly inadequate and unreasonable." Gnazdowsky, a 26-year-old engineer, drowned in October 2020 while working at a Nova Scotia Power reservoir.
According to the CRCC, the investigating officer failed to take reasonable steps to secure what could have been considered a crime scene. Rather than investigating potential criminal liability, the matter was handed over to provincial labour authorities.
Nicole Gnazdowsky, Andrew’s sister, filed a complaint against the RCMP in 2024 regarding their handling of the file. The family's efforts spanned six years before they received formal acknowledgment of police errors.
In response, the RCMP apologized for the distress caused to the Gnazdowsky family during an already devastating time. RCMP Supt. Don Moser stated that the force is working on changes, including new operational guidance and training concerning workplace death investigations.
Three companies—Nova Scotia Power, Brunswick Engineering and Consulting, and Gemtec Consulting—were previously charged under Nova Scotia’s occupational health and safety legislation. They were convicted and fined a total of $260,000 for failing to provide a safe workplace.