Ezra Cool, a 22-year-old from Vernon, B.C., faced a tragic end after escaping a hospital where he was being treated for a mental health crisis. His mother, Christal Cool, described how Ezra had entered the hospital voluntarily but had to be admitted involuntarily under the Mental Health Act after displaying symptoms of psychosis. Despite his lack of previous mental health challenges, his sudden, severe condition led to alarming delusions, such as fears of being drugged and his family held hostage.

On February 6, after spending days in the hospital, Ezra managed to escape while a nurse was on break, leaving the facility dressed only in hospital attire and socks. His mother recounted that she was notified of his escape just moments before learning of a police presence nearby. Tragically, within an hour of his escape, he was struck and killed in a hit-and-run incident involving a semi-truck on Highway 6. This event has raised serious concerns about mental health care in the region, with his family calling attention to the lack of resources that might have prevented this tragedy.

The Vernon RCMP has opened an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision as the family seeks answers about the treatment and care Ezra received during his mental health crisis. This incident sheds light on the broader issues within the mental health system regarding support and availability of resources for individuals in urgent need of help, particularly when they are experiencing acute psychiatric issues.