Police Burned a Man's Home to End a Violent Standoff in B.C.

A standoff in Chilliwack, B.C. in May 2022 ended with police setting a home on fire. Daniel Hackl, the man inside, had fired shots at officers before surrendering. His mental health crisis was later linked to holotropic breathwork. Friends and family had raised concerns about Hackl’s mental state before the incident. An emergency team visited his home for a wellness check, sparking the confrontation.

During the standoff, Hackl fired three gunshots at two officers. The officers, protected by a ballistic shield, were not seriously hurt. The situation escalated until police set Hackl’s home ablaze to force his surrender.

Hackl eventually gave himself up while laughing. He was naked except for body armour. A psychologist later assessed that his breakdown was likely triggered by holotropic breathwork. His condition improved once he began medication. The officers involved escaped without serious injury. Hackl’s mental health stabilised with treatment. The case highlighted the risks associated with unsupervised alternative practices like holotropic breathwork.