The BC Coroners Service has scheduled a public inquest into the death of James Reginald Butters (a.k.a. James Hayward).

The inquest will begin on Aug. 20, 2019, at 9:30 a.m. at the courthouse in Campbell River (500 13th Ave.).

Butters, 24, died July 8, 2015, following a police-involved shooting incident after Port Hardy RCMP members responded to a call of a male uttering threats. The Coroners Act permits the chief coroner to hold an inquest if the public has an interest in being informed of the circumstances surrounding a death.

Presiding coroner Lyn Blenkinsop 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. A jury must not make any finding of legal responsibility or express any conclusion of law.

An inquest is a formal process that allows for public presentation of evidence relating to a death. For more information on inquests, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/life-events/death/coroners-service/inquest-schedule-jury-findings-verdicts

The BC Coroners Service looks to gather the facts surrounding why a death took place. It is not a fault-finding agency. It provides an independent service to the family, community, government agencies and other organizations.

Learn More:

BC Coroners Service: http://www.gov.bc.ca/coroners/