Wells Gray family killer denied parole for fourth time; risk remains elevated

David Ennis, formerly known as David Shearing, has been denied full parole for the fourth time by the Parole Board of Canada. The decision was made on August 19, with the board stating that Ennis' risk of reoffending remains elevated.

Ennis is serving a life sentence for six counts of second-degree murder. On August 1982, he killed West Kelowna residents Bob and Jackie Johnson, their daughters Janet, 13, and Karen, 11, and Jackie's parents, George and Edith Bentley while they were camping at Wells Gray Provincial Park. Ennis watched the family for several days before entering their campsite and fatally shooting all four adults. He then held the children captive for multiple days, sexually assaulting the eldest daughter before killing both girls. He lit the family's vehicle on fire with all six bodies inside in an attempt to conceal evidence.

In March 2026, Ennis waived his right to a parole hearing, and the board completed a legislative review. A June 2026 psychological risk assessment found his risk of recidivism for sexual violence was low for escorted temporary absences, low to medium for unescorted temporary absences, and moderate for full parole. The assessment noted that Ennis admitted he likely would have committed a similar crime if not caught, and the board stated his possibility of successfully reintegrating into society was low. Despite having his wife and two friends as confirmed supports, Ennis failed to provide confirmed employment or accommodation plans and did not submit a community strategy.

The board concluded it would not release him, stating that "[Ennis] would, by reoffending, present an undue risk to society if released on full parole and that your release would not contribute to the protection of society."