The BC Coroners Service has announced that a public inquest will be held into the death of Rene Armand Vaugeois.

The inquest will take place, beginning Feb. 20, 2017, at the Coroners’ courtroom in Burnaby.

Mr. Vaugeois, aged 88, resided in a seniors’ complex in Agassiz. On the morning of Sept. 23, 2015, staff at the complex called the RCMP because of concerns with Mr. Vaugeois’s actions. Capsicum spray was deployed by the RCMP during the ensuing encounter with Mr. Vaugeois. Medical assistance was provided, but Mr. Vaugeois died before reaching hospital.

Presiding coroner Margaret Janzen and a jury will hear evidence from witnesses under oath to determine the facts surrounding this death. The jury will have the opportunity to make recommendations aimed at preventing deaths under similar circumstances.

An inquest is a formal process that allows for public presentation of evidence relating to a death.

Event Date: Beginning Feb. 20, 2017.

Time: 9:30 a.m.

Place: Burnaby Coroners' Court, 20th floor, MetroTower II, Metrotown, 4720 Kingsway, Burnaby