The BC Coroners Service has postponed the inquest into the deaths of Jovan Christopher Williams and Shirley Beatrice Williams in response to the continuing provincial public health measures currently in place to help contain the spread of COVID-19.

The inquest was scheduled to begin on June 15, 2020, at the Smithers courthouse.

The BC Coroners Service will arrange to reschedule the inquest once all COVID-19 public health measures are no longer required.

The decision to postpone the inquest is in line with the Supreme Court of British Columbia’s approach to COVID-19. On March 19, 2020, the Supreme Court of British Columbia suspended regular operations to protect the health and safety of court users, and prevent the spread of COVID-19. All civil and family matters scheduled for hearing between March 29, 2020, and May 1, 2020, (the "suspension period") were adjourned unless the court otherwise directed. The automatic adjournment extended to all trials, conferences, chamber applications and other hearings. On April 16, 2020, the court extended the suspension period to May 29, 2020, and suspended jury selection until July 3, 2020.

For more information, visit: https://www.bccourts.ca