Ontario inquest rules First Nation man's death homicide

An inquest jury has ruled that the death of Sherman Kirby Quisses in 2012 was a homicide. Quisses, a member of Neskantaga First Nation in northwestern Ontario, died following a fight with another inmate at Thunder Bay Correctional Centre. The case saw a murder charge against Adam Capay, 19, dropped after he spent over four years in solitary confinement. The jury determined that Quisses died from hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, a condition caused by a lack of blood and oxygen to the brain, resulting from neck trauma. This inquest was mandatory as Quisses died in custody. It began virtually on February 24 and concluded recently. The four-person jury made 24 recommendations aimed at improving conditions in the prison system. These changes focus on better mental health services and cultural support for Indigenous inmates, especially at the new Thunder Bay Correctional Complex set to open in 2026. Recommendations include hiring more psychologists, enhancing communication among staff, and establishing dedicated spaces for Indigenous cultural programs. The jury also called for increased training for staff on mental health and Indigenous care. While inquest recommendations are not legally binding, the Office of the Chief Coroner requires a response within six months regarding whether these suggestions will be implemented.