Forty-five years after a near-death experience in which a heroin addict attempted to slit his throat, retired RCMP superintendent Russ Grabb reflects on the incident, which occurred on April 14, 1979. Grabb, then a 27-year-old officer in North Vancouver, was responding to a call about a woman who refused to pay her cab fare when the altercation ensued. Despite being nicked by the blade, Grabb narrowly escaped being killed. He recalls the woman’s attempt to kill him and his decision not to shoot her, despite having the opportunity to do so under the law. Grabb later learns that the woman had a history of sexual abuse as a child, which he believes led him to establish a connection with her.
Grabb’s childhood was marked by years of abuse by his mother, including physical, sexual, and emotional trauma. He details his experiences in his book, “Traces of a Boy: Reflections of the Unfathomable,” where he also reflects on the mistakes he made during his time in the RCMP. Grabb attributes his struggles with mental health, addiction, and chaos in adulthood to the trauma he endured as a child. Despite facing numerous near-death experiences and health issues, including over 38 hospitalizations since 2017, Grabb remains grateful for his life. He recently celebrated his birthday in Whistler and is amazed at how healthy and fit he feels at 67 years old, considering the challenges he has faced.
Following the attack on Grabb, the woman involved in the incident was later apprehended in a stolen car involved in a shootout with Burnaby RCMP officers. Despite the violence she was connected to, Grabb recalls making the decision not to shoot her during their initial encounter due to an instinctive feeling of connection to her. This decision was influenced by his own experiences of abuse and trauma, as well as his understanding of her troubled past. Grabb’s ability to empathize with the woman and work towards de-escalation during the confrontation showcases his compassionate approach to law enforcement, despite the dangers he faced.
Grabb’s story highlights the importance of understanding and empathy in law enforcement, especially when dealing with individuals who have experienced trauma and abuse. His decision not to shoot the woman involved in the incident, despite having legal grounds to do so, demonstrates his commitment to peaceful resolution and de-escalation. Grabb’s own experiences of childhood abuse and trauma inform his approach to challenging situations, allowing him to see beyond the immediate danger and connect with the humanity of those he encounters. This perspective has shaped his life and career, influencing his interactions with others and his ongoing journey towards healing and resilience.
As Grabb reflects on the 45th anniversary of the incident that could have taken his life, he acknowledges the impact it has had on his journey towards healing and personal growth. Despite the challenges he has faced, both in his childhood and throughout his career in law enforcement, Grabb remains resilient and grateful for the life he has lived. His ability to find meaning and connection in the face of adversity is a testament to his strength and humanity. Grabb’s story serves as an inspiration for others to seek understanding and empathy in their interactions with those who have experienced trauma, and to approach difficult situations with compassion and a commitment to peaceful resolution.
