(Update: April 28, 2020): Multiple organizations from across BC and Canada are demanding an inquest into the April 15th death of an inmate due to COVID-19.

The unidentified man died at Mission Institution east of Vancouver, where 106 inmates have now tested positive for the virus.

The inmate was taken to Abbotsford Regional Hospital, where he died of complications related to COVID-19.

The man was the first reported COVID-related death of a federal prisoner in Canada.

A total of 38 groups representing human rights, prisoners’ rights, health and legal interests have sent a letter to BC’s chief coroner and solicitor general saying an immediate inquest is in the public interest.

They say inmates cannot be allowed to die in prison from the “ticking timebomb of COVID-19″ and call an inquest a “minimum first step” to ensure similar deaths are prevented.

– With files from The Canadian Press

(Original Story: April 16, 2020):

 Correctional Service Canada (CSC) has confirmed their first death among federally sentenced inmates due to COVID-19.

A statement from Correctional Services says that an inmate from Mission Institution died at Abbotsford Regional Hospital yesterday as an apparent result of complications related to COVID-19.

Photo credit: 123RF

“The inmate’s next of kin have been notified of their death. CSC extends its condolences to the family. The thoughts of management and staff are with them at this time,” the statement reads.

CSC says that , as in all cases involving the death of an inmate, they have notified the coroner who will review the circumstances of the death.

“CSC has dedicated health services and medical professionals in all of its institutions,” the CSC added. “We also work closely and collaboratively with local public health partners and hospitals to provide complete and quality medical care to those who need it and to prevent further spread of COVID-19.”

The CSC says that their protocol for COVID-19 involves medically isolating inmates who show symptoms or test positive for the virus in order to prevent the spread of infection. 

They have modified routines, and put in place measures such as physical distancing, hygiene practices, cleaning and disinfecting protocols.

CSC added that workers and inmates at Mission Institution are also provided with masks to prevent spread.