Man's mental health crisis ends in fiery police standoff after wellness check

A report by The Canadian Press, published on 25 June 2026, sheds light on a disturbing incident involving Daniel Hackl. His mental health crisis in May 2022 led to a violent standoff with police at his home. Concerns about Hackl’s mental well-being had been growing among his friends and family before the incident. On the day of the confrontation, an emergency response team conducted a wellness check at his residence. During the standoff, Hackl fired three gunshots at two officers, who were protected by a ballistic shield and escaped serious injury.

The situation escalated until police set Hackl’s home on fire to force his surrender. He eventually gave himself up while laughing, wearing only body armour. A psychologist later determined that his breakdown was likely triggered by holotropic breathwork, an intense breathing practice. Hackl’s condition improved after he began receiving medication. The report highlights the severe consequences of his mental health episode and the extreme measures taken to resolve the standoff.