The death of Matthew Ball, a 43-year-old sergeant with the Central Saanich Police Department, has left the community in shock. Ball was found deceased in a forested area near Shawnigan Lake, just one day after being arrested on charges related to a sexual assault investigation. While no foul play is suspected, the BC Coroners Service has launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of death.
Ball’s arrest came on Tuesday morning, when he and fellow officer Ryan Johnston were apprehended on suspicion of sexually assaulting the same woman. The two officers were involved in a lengthy investigation conducted by the Vancouver Police Department, which spanned over seven weeks. The alleged assaults took place between February 2019 and October 2023, and the victim, now in her mid-20s, was reportedly in a vulnerable state at the time of the offences.
Ball was facing charges of one count of sexual assault and one count of breach of trust, while Johnston, 40, was charged with sexual assault related to incidents that allegedly occurred between February and March 2020. The officers were released on bail and were due to appear in court in mid-January 2024.
The news of Ball’s sudden death has sent shockwaves through the Central Saanich Police Department and the wider community. While the investigation into the charges against the two officers remains ongoing, the unexpected passing of Ball raises further questions about the events leading up to this tragic moment.
Authorities have emphasized that the investigation into Ball’s death is being treated with the utmost care and diligence, though initial findings suggest there was no criminal involvement in his passing.
This incident underscores the complexity of the case and the serious implications for the officers involved. As investigations continue, authorities have reminded the public of the available mental health support resources for those affected by these events, including the Crisis Line Association of B.C., which can be reached at 1-800-784-2433.
