REGINA — A public inquest set to investigate the death of 20-year-old Samwel Uko has been postponed indefinitely by the provincial coroner’s office, following the announcement of new COVID-19 public health orders.
The inquest, originally scheduled to begin on Sept. 20, has been placed on hold “in order to adapt to the COVID-19 protocols announced yesterday,” said a notice from the Chief Coroner.
“This decision was reached in consultation with the inquest coroner, inquest counsel, and the parties with standing,” continued the statement. “The family of Samwel Uko has been notified of this decision.”
Uko was last seen on May 21, 2020 entering Wascana Lake after seeking mental health aid from Regina General Hospital and being turned away. His body was later recovered by search and rescue personnel.
The public inquest was called to determine the circumstances surrounding Uko’s death, and to make recommendations to prevent similar deaths in the future.
A new date for the inquest has not yet been set, said the Chief Coroner, but will take into account the health and safety of those involved.
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