Errors in UVic’s response led to fatal overdose of student, independent report details
‘s report highlights that there is still much work to be done to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The findings of the report shed light on the series of choices and mistakes that ultimately led to the untimely death of Sidney McIntyre-Starko, a first-year University of Victoria student, in January 2024.
The report, authored by former Abbotsford police chief Bob Rich, emphasizes that there were several points on the night of the overdose when a different response could have potentially saved McIntyre-Starko’s life. The failure to properly care for her, along with the lack of necessary equipment and training among campus security officers, were identified as key contributing factors to the tragic outcome.
McIntyre-Starko’s parents have been vocal in their quest for transparency and accountability following their daughter’s death. They firmly believe that had the campus security officers provided respiratory support and administered naloxone promptly, Sidney would still be alive today. The report echoes their sentiments and underscores the need for improved training, processes, and safeguards to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.
UVic president Kevin Hall has committed to implementing all 18 recommendations outlined in the report. The university is currently working on developing an action plan in consultation with experts to address the gaps identified in the response to McIntyre-Starko’s overdose. Hall aims to have most of the recommendations implemented before the start of the next academic year.
The report also sheds light on the challenges faced by McIntyre-Starko’s family in obtaining information about the circumstances surrounding her death. The lack of communication and transparency from university officials only added to their grief and frustration. The family’s perseverance in seeking answers eventually led to the creation of a provincial committee to examine overdose prevention and response in post-secondary institutions.
Moving forward, the report recommends measures such as improved first-aid training, the implementation of a medical amnesty policy, and enhanced communication and support for families in times of crisis. It also calls for a thorough investigation into the inconsistencies in witness accounts and security officers’ responses during the incident.
Ultimately, the report serves as a wake-up call for UVic and other post-secondary institutions to prioritize the safety and well-being of their students. By learning from the mistakes and choices that led to Sidney McIntyre-Starko’s tragic death, steps can be taken to ensure that such a heartbreaking loss is never repeated. The university must commit to creating a safer and more supportive environment for all students, where timely intervention and proper care can prevent senseless tragedies from occurring.
