Region calls claim about delayed response to overdose at encampment ‘unfounded’
Posted May 2, 2025 05:03:48 PM.
Last Updated May 2, 2025 05:03:52 PM.
The Region of Waterloo is responding to an allegation about a delayed emergency response to an overdose at a Kitchener encampment.
On Friday morning, Waterloo Region Community Legal Services (WRCLS) issued a release following a fatal overdose at 100 Victoria Street.
“Tragically, emergency treatment was delayed because access to the encampment was blocked by the onsite security services vehicle, forcing EMS to park in the road. Sadly, the individual died,” said WRCLS.
The legal group said the driveway entrance to the encampment had not been blocked in the past, and called it a recent change.
“Previously, it was the long-term practice of security services to park in the parking lot directly west of the encampment,” wrote WRCLS.
While the Region of Waterloo confirmed an individual sadly passed away at the encampment on Thursday, it refuted the allegation.
“We can confirm that paramedic services provided an immediate response to the call and were able to access the site with no delay, as has always been the case,” read the regional response sent to CityNews Kitchener. “False allegations made in a misleading statement issued by Waterloo Region Community Legal Services earlier today are serious, harmful and unfounded. The Region of Waterloo is reviewing all options to prevent misinformation.”
The duelling statements come after regional council passed a new site-specific bylaw last week meant to transition residents out of the Victoria Street encampment by Dec. 1 because the land is needed for a transit hub development.
