Ontario coroner confirms May 2026 proceedings into 2021 death following police interaction
Seven-day inquest to examine circumstances and consider recommendations
An inquest into the death of Justin Bourassa, a 29-year-old man who died following an interaction with police in 2021, is set to begin in early May, according to Ontario’s Office of the Chief Coroner.
Dr. Elizabeth Urbantke, Regional Supervising Coroner for the West Region based in London, announced that proceedings will commence at 9:30 a.m. on Monday, May 4, 2026. The inquest will be conducted virtually and is expected to run for approximately seven days.
The hearing will be presided over by Murray Segal, with Phil Tsui serving as inquest counsel.
Mr. Bourassa died on October 28, 2021, following an interaction earlier that same day with officers from the London Police Service. Under Ontario’s Coroners Act, an inquest is mandatory in cases involving deaths that occur under certain circumstances, including those involving police interactions.
Focus on circumstances and prevention
The primary purpose of the inquest is to examine the events surrounding Mr. Bourassa’s death. A jury will hear evidence from approximately seven witnesses over the course of the proceedings.
While the inquest does not assign criminal or civil liability, it plays a critical role in public accountability and oversight. At its conclusion, the jury may issue recommendations aimed at preventing similar deaths in the future.
Such recommendations, while not legally binding, are often directed at institutions, policymakers, or public agencies and can influence changes in procedures, training, or legislation.
Virtual format allows public access
In line with evolving practices in Ontario’s coroner system, the inquest will be held via video conference. Members of the public will be able to observe the proceedings live through an online streaming platform.
The Ministry of the Solicitor General has provided a public access link for those wishing to follow the hearings remotely. This approach is intended to enhance transparency while maintaining accessibility for a wider audience.
Broader context of coroner’s inquests in Ontario
Coroner’s inquests in Ontario serve as fact-finding inquiries rather than adversarial proceedings. They are designed to shed light on deaths that occur in circumstances of public interest or concern.
In cases involving law enforcement, inquests can draw significant public attention, particularly when questions arise about the use of force, response protocols, or interactions with vulnerable individuals.
The involvement of a jury distinguishes inquests from other types of reviews or investigations. Jurors are tasked with evaluating evidence presented during the hearings and ultimately determining the facts surrounding the death.
Anticipated timeline and outcomes
The Bourassa inquest is expected to conclude within seven days, though timelines can shift depending on the scope of testimony and evidence presented.
At the close of proceedings, the jury may deliver a set of recommendations focused on systemic improvements. These could address areas such as police procedures, emergency response practices, or inter-agency coordination.
The findings and recommendations will be made publicly available following the conclusion of the inquest.
Public interest and accountability
The upcoming inquest represents a key step in reviewing the circumstances of Mr. Bourassa’s death nearly five years after the incident occurred.
By examining evidence in a public forum, the process aims to provide clarity for stakeholders, including the family of the deceased, community members, and public institutions.
Further information about the inquest, including access to the live proceedings, has been made available through the Office of the Chief Coroner.