The public inquest looking into the death of Samwel Uko gets underway today. It is scheduled to take place from May 30 to June 3 with the possibility of an extension to June 6 at the Ramada Plaza in Regina. The inquest was postponed due to COVID-19 protocols which were implemented when it was originally set to begin.

On May 21, 2020 the 20-year-old former football player was found dead in the water at Wascana Lake just hours after seeking help at a Regina Hospital.

Surveillance video from that day shows Uko screaming for help while being removed from the emergency room by security. Uko’s family had launched a lawsuit against the province, claiming they failed to protect Samwel in his most vulnerable state. The Saskatchewan Health Authority has issued an apology.

The Saskatchewan Coroners Service is responsible for the investigation of all sudden, unexpected deaths. The purpose of an inquest is to establish who died, when and where that person died and the medical cause and manner of death.

The coroner’s jury may make recommendations to prevent similar deaths. Coroner Robert Kennedy will preside at the inquest.