Public inquiry to look into the deaths of four RCMP officers in Alberta

The public fatality inquiry into the deaths of Constable Anthony Gordon, Constable Leo Johnston, Constable Brock Myrol, Constable Peter Schiemann, and James Roszko has been scheduled to begin on January 10, 2011 at the Stony Plain Provincial Court.

Under the Fatality Inquiries Act, family members of the deceased may appear at the inquiry either personally or through counsel to cross-examine witnesses and present arguments and submissions. Individuals other than family members may appear if, after applying, the judge determines they have a direct and substantial interest in the subject matter of the inquiry.

It is anticipated that applications for interested person status will be heard by Assistant Chief Judge D.R. Pahl at a pre-inquiry conference at 9:30 a.m. on August 19, 2010 at the Stony Plain Provincial Court. Those wishing to apply for interested person status are asked to contact inquiry counsel, G. Alan Meikle, Q.C., at the following address by August 5, 2010:

G. Alan Meikle, Q.C.
9th floor, Peace Hills Trust Tower
10011 109th Street
Edmonton, AB T5J 3S8
Phone (780) 422-9479
Fax (780) 427-1230

A public fatality inquiry is held to establish the cause, manner, time, place and circumstances of death, as well as the identity of the deceased. Once the inquiry is complete the judge provides a written report. The judge may make recommendations for the prevention of similar incidents, but cannot make any findings of legal responsibility.