The University of Victoria has released an independent review into the opioid-related death of first-year student Sidney McIntyre-Starko in January 2024. 

The report, led by former Abbotsford police chief and lawyer Bob Rich, outlines 18 recommendations to improve campus safety 乌鸦传媒� measures the university said it has committed to implementing.

Rich乌鸦传媒檚 review examines the circumstances surrounding McIntyre-Starko乌鸦传媒檚 death, evaluates best practices, and provides steps to strengthen overdose prevention and response on campus. The report is aimed at strengthening campus safety as UVic continues to navigate the effects of the province乌鸦传媒檚 toxic drug crisis. 

乌鸦传媒淲hile the university has taken action over the past year to improve safety on campus, there乌鸦传媒檚 more to do and we乌鸦传媒檙e committed to the work ahead,乌鸦传媒� said UVic president Kevin Hall, adding the university will work to ensure the tragedy leads to 乌鸦传媒渕eaningful and lasting change.乌鸦传媒�

Over the past six months, Rich interviewed more than 50 students, staff, first responders and experts. His report coincides with broader efforts, including an upcoming BC Coroner乌鸦传媒檚 inquest and a review by the BC Post-Secondary Overdose Prevention and Response Steering Committee.

The recommendations will be integrated into UVic乌鸦传媒檚 institutional Overdose Prevention Plan, led by Jennifer White from the School of Child and Youth Care.