A recent coroner’s investigation determined that the death of a 29-year-old man following an encounter with the police was accidental, with the use of the hogtie technique during his restraint likely playing a role. Abisay Cruz passed away on March 30, 2025, after an incident that originated on a balcony in Saint-Michel, Montreal. He was one of two individuals who lost their lives in separate police operations within a 12-hour timeframe that weekend. The circumstances surrounding Cruz’s death, including footage of the incident shared on social media, led to protests in the community and exacerbated existing distrust toward law enforcement.
The hogtie method involves binding a person’s limbs behind their back while they are lying face down. According to the coroner’s report by Géhane Kamel, Cruz’s demise was deemed accidental, with the presence of a “toxic level” of cocaine in his system noted. However, Kamel highlighted concerns regarding the hogtie technique, stating that it is widely discouraged and has restrictions or bans in place by numerous law enforcement and medical bodies due to its association with detainee fatalities and significant safety and human rights issues.
The report delves into the final moments of Cruz’s life, shedding light on conflicting testimonies provided by his family and the officers involved in the incident. Further updates on this developing story are anticipated.