Emotions are running high in Beau Baker death inquest

Re: Judge reserves decision on secrecy request — Oct. 16

The loss of a loved one is almost always difficult for one to endure, regardless of the circumstances. An accidental or premature death can be even more painful.

Understandably, the family of Beau Baker is quite distressed about the loss of their loved one and also the actions that led to Mr. Baker’s death. The latter point has been addressed by Ontario’s Special Investigations Unit and it was decided that the officer was justified in firing his weapon.

According to the Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services website, inquests are held for the purpose of informing the public about the circumstances of a death and to make non-binding recommendations that, if implemented, will prevent further deaths. The assignment of blame, in the context of the inquest jury’s report and recommendations, is not allowed.

A coroner’s inquest follows the Chief Coroner’s Rules of Procedure for Inquests, which are designed to ensure an efficient, fair and open process.

Given these parameters, I don’t believe the inquest jury’s report and recommendations will be enhanced by requiring the officer to provide his testimony in person versus providing the same testimony anonymously.

I think we can all agree that emotions are running high in this situation. This clearly applies to those who were close to Mr. Baker.

I suspect this also applies to the police officer, whose willingness to serve and protect his community has resulted in a life-affecting outcome for him and his family.

Richard Ernst

Kitchener