Public inquest into 2018 death of 20-year-old to be held this month

More than three years after the death of Brennan Ahenakew-Johnstone, a public inquest has been scheduled to begin later this month.

Ahenakew-Johnstone, 20, died on May 10, 2018. His remains were found in a burnt vehicle on Ahtahkakoop Cree Nation.

The inquest will start on Aug. 23, 2021, at 10 a.m. at the Coronet Hotel, 3551 – 2^nd Avenue West in Prince Albert and last until Aug. 27. Start times after the first day will be determined by the presiding coroner.

Coroner Blaine Beaven will preside over the inquest.

Saskatchewan’s Chief Coroner can direct that an inquest be held into the death of any person, according to Section 19 of the Coroners Act (1999).

The Saskatchewan Coroners Service is responsible for investigating all sudden and unexpected deaths. The purpose of an inquest is to establish facts rather than placing blame, according to the Government of Saskatchewan website. Witnesses are called and a jury may make recommendations to prevent similar future deaths.