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Umpherville Death: Jury Weighs Evidence, Seeks Prevention
24 Jul
Summary
- Jury deliberates Boden Umpherville's death after four days of testimony.
- Umpherville died from cardiac arrest caused by positional asphyxiation and cocaine.
- Jury recommendations could focus on preventing similar future deaths.
The jury at the inquest into Boden Umpherville's death is currently deliberating after hearing testimony from 19 witnesses over four days. Presiding coroner Fredrick Kovach instructed the six-member jury to determine the "how and when and by what means" Umpherville died, emphasizing that they must rely solely on courtroom evidence.
Umpherville, who was a member of Ahtahkakoop Cree Nation, died on April 26, 2023, after being taken off life support. The coroner determined his death was caused by cardiac arrest resulting from positional asphyxiation and cocaine intoxication. During his arrest on April 1, 2023, officers used repeated stunning, pepper spray, and physical force.
Officers testified they struggled to restrain Umpherville and feared for their safety. The jury can make non-binding recommendations to prevent future deaths, with body-worn cameras being a potential suggestion, as Prince Albert police currently do not wear them. The inquest heard from various experts and medical professionals, and Umpherville's family believes excessive force was used, though a 2025 report cleared the officers.
