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Coroner’s report into deaths of two UVic students

- University of Victoria

The University of Victoria is reaching out with sadness and reflection today after the conclusion of the BC Coroners Service reports into the deaths of our two students, Emma Machado of Winnipeg and John Geerdes of Iowa City. John and Emma passed away Sept. 13, 2019 after a horrific bus accident on the road to the Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre.

Our hearts go out to the parents, families and friends of Emma and John at this sombre and difficult time. We recognize that every time the accident and its devastating outcomes are discussed in public, it weighs heavily on those who were involved and their loved ones. We’ve worked diligently since that fateful day in 2019 to make our future field trips as safe as possible for every student.
—Kevin Hall, President and Vice-Chancellor

Out of consideration and respect for Emma’s and John’s families, UVic is not relaying the reports’ contents in any detail. The reports are available upon request from the regional office of the BC Coroners Service.

The university held an independent review into the circumstances leading to the accident and its response, which led to 43 recommendations, all of which the university accepted.

On future field trips, staff will be enforcing protocols as part of the hazard assessment and control (risk management) program. All recommendations except one are expected to be complete by June 30, 2021. The remaining recommendation will be fulfilled once BMSC re-opens.

The university knows that the accident’s aftermath will last well beyond these past 18 months and encourages anyone involved who needs help to reach out to the available services at UVic.

Support services

For students involved:

  • For those who are already working with a counsellor at the Student Wellness Centre, you can contact your counsellor directly for appointments.
  • For those who have not already accessed counselling, please call or email to book an appointment and self-identify as a student who was involved in the Bamfield accident so that UVic Counselling can best support you: 250-721-8536 or .

Other students, faculty or staff members who are also in need of support can contact the following services:

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