AI-generated illustration; not a photograph of the reported event.
- calendar_today October 29, 2026
Inquests Announced for Three In-Custody Deaths in Manitoba
Manitoba's chief medical examiner has called for inquests into the deaths of three men who died in custody between July 2022 and March 2026. The deaths occurred at separate facilities: Stony Mountain Institution, Winnipeg Remand Centre, and the Long Plain holding cell.
Jeremy Peters: Death at Long Plain Holding Cell
The first inquest concerns Jeremy Peters, a 42-year-old man from Long Plain First Nation. According to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, Peters was taken into custody under the Intoxicated Persons Detention Act. On July 9, 2022, Peters was found not breathing in his holding cell. The office did not initially disclose the detention location, but a report from the Independent Investigation Unit of Manitoba confirms he was in custody at the Long Plain detachment, having been detained by the Manitoba First Nations Police Service.
Before his detention, Peters reportedly appeared intoxicated and acted erratically. He was restrained during transport due to non-cooperation. Peters was eventually transported to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead. An autopsy found the cause of death to be intoxication from a combination of cocaine, methamphetamine, and ethanol. His death was ruled accidental, and after investigation, the police watchdog recommended no charges in the case.
Stony Mountain and Winnipeg Remand Centre Incidents
The other two inquests address deaths by suicide in 2026. Craig Flett, aged 32, was found hanging in his single-person cell at Stony Mountain Institution, a federal facility, on February 10, 2026. Resuscitation attempts failed, and an autopsy confirmed suicide as the cause of death.
The third case involves Sebastian Atkinson, 25, who was found hanging in his cell at the Winnipeg Remand Centre on March 25, 2026. His death was also determined to be a suicide following autopsy results.
Purpose of the Inquests
The inquests were called under The Fatality Inquiries Act, which in Manitoba typically mandates public inquiries following in-custody deaths. According to Chief Medical Examiner John Younes, these inquests aim to independently examine the circumstances of each case and consider what measures, if any, might help prevent similar incidents in future. Dates for the inquest hearings have not yet been set.
Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Support
The cases highlight ongoing concerns regarding mental health support and suicide prevention among incarcerated individuals. Manitoba residents seeking help can turn to national and provincial resources, including:
- Canada’s Suicide Crisis Helpline: Call or text 988.
- Provincial and territorial mental health support.
- Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868; Text 686868; or access live chat at the website.
- A guide from the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health for conversations about suicide.
Warning signs of potential suicide risk, as noted by the Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention, include suicidal ideation, substance use, purposelessness, anxiety, feelings of being trapped, hopelessness, withdrawal, anger, recklessness, and notable mood changes.
About the Author
Erin DeBooy is a CBC Manitoba reporter with experience covering courts, education, and breaking news across the province.
Source: cbc.ca.
