Coroner’s Inquest Announced for 2020 Death of Jamal Francique in Mississauga

The Coroner’s Office has confirmed that an inquest will be held into the death of 28-year-old Jamal Francique, who was fatally shot by Peel Regional Police in Mississauga in 2020. The inquest will examine the circumstances surrounding his death.

Background of the Case

Jamal Francique was shot and killed on January 7, 2020, during an attempted arrest near Southampton Drive and Aquinas Avenue. Officers were responding to breach-related offences connected to drug investigations, according to the Special Investigations Unit (SIU) report.

Following the incident, Francique’s family filed a $101-million lawsuit. After a year-long investigation, the SIU concluded that there were no grounds to charge the subject officer involved in the shooting.

Details About the Inquest

The Coroner’s Office has not yet announced the exact date or location of the inquest. A spokesperson stated that:

“The inquest team is currently working to determine dates that can accommodate all parties and witnesses. In general, inquests are held in the jurisdiction where the death occurred, although many of our inquests are now held virtually.”

The inquest is mandatory under the Coroners Act and will allow a jury to examine the circumstances of Francique’s death. The jury may also make recommendations aimed at preventing further deaths in similar situations.

Purpose of the Inquest

Inquests are designed to provide transparency and accountability in cases of deaths involving police and other public authorities. While they do not assign criminal or civil liability, they aim to identify systemic issues and suggest measures to prevent future incidents.