Inquest into death of woman found in White Rock RCMP cells set to begin Sept. 15
Patricia Ann Wilson, 58, was found unresponsive in White Rock RCMP cells on March 29, 2016. A mandatory inquest will begin Tuesday, September 15 in Burnaby.
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An inquest into the death of Patricia Ann Wilson, 58, who was found unresponsive in White Rock RCMP cells on the morning of March 29, 2016, will begin Tuesday, September 15, 2026 at 9:30 a.m. in Burnaby.
Wilson's death followed events involving civilian jail guards and members of the White Rock RCMP, according to the BC Coroners Service. The death was mandatory for inquest under the Coroners Act, which requires investigation when someone dies in the custody of a peace officer.
The inquest was previously scheduled for June 16–25, 2025 in Burnaby but was postponed. Presiding coroner Kimberly Isbister will oversee the proceedings.
A jury will hear evidence under oath and determine the facts of the death, including identity, how death occurred, when, where, by what means, and the classification of death. The jury may make recommendations intended to prevent similar deaths but cannot make findings of legal responsibility or conclusions of law.
Specific details about the events that preceded Wilson's death or the circumstances of her collapse have not been made public.
What specific events involving jail guards and RCMP members preceded Wilson's death?
Why was the 2025 inquest postponed?
We'll update this story as answers emerge.
The facts
When does the inquest into Patricia Ann Wilson's death begin?
The inquest begins on Tuesday, September 15, 2026 at 9:30 a.m. in Burnaby.
When was Patricia Ann Wilson found unresponsive in White Rock RCMP cells?
Patricia Ann Wilson was found unresponsive on March 29, 2016.
Who is presiding over the inquest?
Coroner Kimberly Isbister is presiding over the proceedings.
What can the jury determine at this inquest?
The jury will hear evidence under oath and determine the facts of the death, including identity, how death occurred, when, where, by what means, and the classification of death.
