June 28, 2018
Standing Hearing for Inquest into Death of Freeman Zong
A standing hearing will take place to determine who can participate in the upcoming inquest into the death of Freeman Zong, 26, of Dauphin.
On the evening of July 14, 2016, Zong was in custody at the Dauphin Correctional Centre (DCC). He told other inmates and staff that he was taking a shower but was found hanging in the shower area by correctional officers a short time later. Staff made resuscitation attempts and called emergency medical responders. However, these efforts were unsuccessful and Zong died at DCC. A medical examiner determined Zong died by suicide.
Under The Fatality Inquiries Act, an inquest has been called by the chief medical examiner. Inquests explore the circumstances and events leading to deaths for the purpose of finding out what, if anything, might be done to prevent similar deaths in the future.
Before the inquest begins, the judge will decide who can participate in the process and question witnesses. Individuals and groups may make an application to be granted standing and participate in the inquest. Those interested in applying for standing should contact Alan Semchuk, inquest counsel, at 204-622-2082 oralan.semchuk@gov.mb.ca by July 20. The standing hearing will be held on July 25 at 1 p.m. in courtroom 103 at Dauphin Provincial Court.
- 30 -